The pope toured St. Peter's Square with the popemobile, which stopped dozens of times to bless these little ones.
In his catechesis, Pope Francis explained the Fourth Commandment, “Honor your father and your mother.” He said that God rewards those who practice it with a happy life.
POPE FRANCIS
“Although not all fathers and mothers are good, nor all childhoods are serene, all children can be happy. Because a full and happy life depends on the just recognition of those who have brought us into the world.”
He recalled that honoring one's parents is a free act, and it helps each person make peace with their past.
POPE FRANCIS
“If you have drawn apart from your parents, make an effort and go back; reconcile. Maybe they are old, but remember that they have given you life.”
Before leaving, he suggested to the pilgrims that they decide never to offend other people's parents.
POPE FRANCIS
“We have a habit of saying bad things, even swear words. Please, never, never, never insult the parents of others. Never insult the mother or father. Make this decision: from now on I will not insult the mother or father of another.”
Among the participants was a very large group of soldiers. They came from Slovakia and participated in a special pilgrimage.
