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Pope Blesses Astronauts In 1st Papal Call To Space
By Associated Press
Published: 5/22/2011 2:12 AM
Last Modified: 5/22/2011 5:36 AM
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) – Pope Benedict XVI had a direct line to the heavens Saturday, with NASA's help.
Speaking from the Vatican, the pontiff bestowed a historic blessing upon the 12 astronauts circling Earth during the first papal call to space, wishing a swift recovery for the shuttle commander's wounded congresswoman wife.
The "extraordinary" conversation, as Benedict described it, occurred after the Endeavour astronauts inspected a small gash in the shuttle's belly, to ensure their safe return to Earth after departing the International Space Station in just over a week. NASA later determined the damage posed no threat to the next-to-last flight in the 30-year shuttle program.
Seated at a table before a television set tuned to NASA's live broadcast from orbit, Benedict told the space travelers that "you are our representatives spearheading humanity's exploration of new spaces and possibilities for our future." He said he admired their courage, discipline and commitment.
"It must be obvious to you how we all live together on one Earth and how absurd it is that we fight and kill each one," the pontiff said, reading from prepared remarks. "I know that Mark Kelly's wife was a victim of a serious attack, and I hope her health continues to improve."
