All flags on Government buildings will be flown at half-mast on Friday as Pope John Paul II is laid to rest.

?We join the many millions around the world in recognising the passing of Pope John Paul II,? Premier Alex Scott said via a Press statement yesterday. ?He was a history-making figure well before his passing, having played a significant and influential role in world events, and, of course, Pope John Paul II was the spiritual head of the world?s Catholics.?

It is customary in such instances for flags to be flown at half mast from dawn until sunset on the day of the funeral.

*A general invitation is extended to all to attend a Memorial Mass for the late Pope John Paul II tonight at 7.30 p.m. at St. Theresa?s Roman Catholic Cathedral on the corner of Cedar and Elliott Streets, Hamilton.