Today the pope leaves for Colombia, the Catholic country of 47 million. From September 6-11, he will visit four cities, where a theme is chosen for each city.
On day one in Bogotá, the theme will be centered on being “a promoter of peace and life.” He is credited with assisting the controversial peace deal signed between the government and the leftist FARC rebel force, so this theme will lead him as he meets with civil and ecclesiastical authorities, along with Latin American bishops. The next day in Villavicencio, he will focus on “reconciliation,” as he hosts a liturgical prayer service with victims of violence. This is especially relevant because it is one area most affected by the war on drug trafficking.
Day three in Medellín is all about “discipleship,” as the pope goes to Hogar San José, an 100-year-old orphanage that is kept up by citizens.
The last day on “the dignity of the person and human rights” will be celebrated in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Cartagena. There, he will also pray at St. Peter Claver's tomb and celebrate Mass before heading back to Rome, Italy, that evening, concluding his fifth trip to Latin America.
