Washington D.C., Feb 24, 2005 / 22:00 pm
President George W. Bush wished Pope John Paul II a speedy recovery yesterday.
"On behalf of all Americans, Laura and I send our heartfelt best wishes to Pope John Paul II," Bush said in a statement. "The Holy Father is in our thoughts and prayers and we wish him a speedy recovery and return to the service of his church and of all humanity."
The statement was issued aboard Air Force One as the president returned to Washington from Europe.