“I'm excited to think I'll come back to Ireland!”
With this greeting in English, Pope Francis has published a video message a few days before traveling to Ireland for the World Meeting of Families.
The pope explained this world gathering is a celebration of the beauty of God's plan for the family, and also an occasion for the families of the world to renew themselves in facing the many challenges that lie ahead.
POPE FRANCIS
“I hope that this occasion will be a source of renewed encouragement for families all over the world, especially those families who will be there, in Dublin. May it remind us of the essential place the family has in the life of society and in the building of a better future for young people.”
Although the pope is traveling to Ireland for the World Meeting of Families, he says his visit is also intended to embrace all Irish people.
POPE FRANCIS
“I pray, in particular, that it will serve to increase unity and reconciliation among all the faithful of Christ, as a sign of that lasting peace, which is God's dream for the whole human family.”
Finally, Pope Francis asked for prayers that the meeting be a moment of joy and serenity, bidding farewell with a blessing in English.