His Grace, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr George Carey, wrote to the Pope in Janu­ary 2002 informing the Holy Father that he would retire from that office (to take effect in October). The Pope responded to that letter. The Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity published a statement expressing appreciation for the service Dr Carey had given. On June 21st, 2002, Dr Carey came to Rome for a farewell visit as Archbishop, to Pope John Paul II.