LONDON - 18 May 2004 - 120 words

Pope's birthday marked with launch of his latest book

Claire Bergin

As Pope John Paul II celebrates his 84th birthday today, the publishers Mondadori are launching his latest book: Arise! Let Us Go!- which they describe as "an invitation to optimism".

Written in Polish between March and August 2003 the book recalls his 20 years episcopal ministry in Krakow. It is being published in Italy, Poland, Germany, France, Spain, England and Portugal.

All profits from the sales of the book - which is expected to be a best-seller - will go to charities chosen by the Pope.

Ten years ago after Mondadori published Crossing the Threshold of Hope, the money raised was used to support projects in Rwanda, Burundi and the Balkans war.

© Independent Catholic News 2004

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