VATICAN CITY -- Pope John Paul isn't letting up. A day after making a trip to a shrine in Pompeii, he presided at his weekly general audience at the Vatican. He appeared alert but did struggle to read his remarks.
He's 83 and suffers from Parkinson's disease. In recent months, he's had increasing problems with his mobility and speech.
On Wednesday, he issued greetings in 11 languages, but only read a small portion of his remarks.
On Tuesday, he made a three-hour trip to a shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary near the ruins of ancient Pompeii.
Next week, the pope faces an event-packed schedule during celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of his papacy.
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