Pope makes address after Easter ceremonies

VATICAN CITY (AP) -- After days of tiring ceremonies, Pope John Paul II delivered a brief speech today on the Virgin Mary and wished the faithful a "Happy Easter."
The 83-year-old's recent schedule has included Holy Thursday, Good Friday, the Easter vigil and Easter Sunday. John Paul -- who suffers from Parkinson's disease -- spoke relatively clearly today but skipped passages from his prepared text, as he has on some previous occasions.
"I entrust to the mother of crucified and risen Jesus the expectations and hopes, as well as the worries and fears, of the entire world," the pope said from his window overlooking St. Peter's Square. "Happy Easter to everyone!"
On Sunday, John Paul delivered the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" Easter blessing, calling for world leaders to resolve conflicts in Iraq, the Middle East and Africa, and urging followers of Christianity, Islam and Judaism to "rediscover the brotherhood they share."