St. Peter's Square was packed on Wednesday morning, with more than 60,000 pilgrims welcoming Pope Francis. From the popemobile, he blessed several children along the way- and this group of girls got a chance to get up close and give three red roses to the Pope.
At one point, the Pope got off the popemobile to greet this group of children, waving Chinese flags.
In his catechesis the Pope talked about the beauty of Christian marriage, describing it as an act of faith and love. He also highlighted what marriage is not.
POPE FRANCIS
'It's not just a ceremony that takes place in the Church, with flowers, a dress and photographs. Christian marriage is a Sacrament that happens in the Church, but it also makes the Church. It starts a new family life.â?
Reflecting a letter of St. Paul, the Pope reiterated that a husband has the responsibility to love his wife, just as Christ loves the Church. He had this to say to all husbands:
POPE FRANCIS
'All you husbands out here understand this. To love your wives just like Christ loves His Church, is no joke.â?
Highlighting the power of the Sacrament, he also reiterated that when couples marry in the Church, they are called to transmit the grace of God to everyone.
Last but not least, he greeted the newlywed couples out in the Square, reminding them to love one another just as Christ loves His Church.
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