In this Year of the Eucharist, John Paul II is promoting a worldwide network of prayer for vocations.

This network, animated by the Pontifical Work for Ecclesiastical Vocations, under the Congregation for Catholic Education, seeks "to create through a shift of prayer in each continent, a chain of petition that unites the Christian communities of the whole world."

"I would like to confirm, in this context, that the Eucharist is the source and nourishment of every priestly and religious vocation," explained the Pope in a message addressed today to the congregation presided over by Cardinal Zenon Grocholewski.

"I wish, therefore, to express my appreciation for all the initiatives integrated in this 'network' of prayer for vocations, and I hope it will embrace the world," said the Holy Father.

John Paul II also encouraged the work of "those who dedicate time and effort to promote a pastoral vocations network within the ecclesial community."

In his message, the Pope pointed out that a decisive moment to establish this network will be April 17, the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. The Vatican last month published his message for that occasion.