In Ireland, Pope Francis faced two issues: on the one hand, he tried to remedy the heartbreaking rage caused by sexual abuse and the cover-up. On the other hand, the pope also traveled to the country to speak about the family.
He wasted no time because even on the flight to Dublin he started talking about it.
1.- AS A COUPLE: GIVE SPACE
This cameraman from Rome Reports invited the pope to his wedding, as he will be getting married in a few days. Pope Francis reminded him that in a relationship it is very important to make room for the other person.
Remember the three keywords of marriage: 'May I,' to not intrude, 'Thanks' and 'Forgive me.'
2.- THE “BIG” SMALL GESTURES
In front of newlyweds and those engaged, he said that in the family sorrows divide and the joys multiply. The pope insisted on giving importance to gestures because they help to create a good family atmosphere. To explain it, he used a personal memory.
POPE FRANCIS
“I remember once, I was 5 years old, I went into the house and I was in the dining room. Dad came home from work, and in front of me, Mom and Dad kissed. I'll never forget it. How nice! He was tired from work but had the strength to express his love for his wife. Let your children see you like this, caressing, kissing, hugging.”
3.- TAKE CARE OF THE ELDERLY AND TEACH YOUNG PEOPLE
Finally, the pope insisted on taking care of the relationship between generations. On the one hand, to help the elderly and listen to their wisdom...
POPE FRANCIS
“A society, listen to this carefully, a society that doesn't value grandparents is a society with no future.”
...And on the other hand, teach the children and invest time with them. Parents are the bridge between adults and children.
POPE FRANCIS
“Children learn to forgive when they see that their parents forgive one another. If we understand this, we can appreciate the greatness of Jesus' teaching on fidelity in marriage.”
4.- THE FAMILY IS A PARTY
The last great piece of advice was given by the event itself: the participation of great artists and public enthusiasm helped to create a festive atmosphere, as it is in any family gatherings.