Before traveling, Pope Francis always prays to the patron saint of Rome, before the image of Salus Populi Romani in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, and this trip is no exception. However, what was surprising was to see him in a wheelchair.
In his most recent public events, the Pope seemed to have improved slighlty as he was able to move with a cane. Yet, the photo shows that he has not fully recovered.
Even so, he is determined to travel to Canada. It is a trip like no other as Pope Francis defined it as a 'penitential pilgrimage.'
POPE FRANCIS
And now, I am about to make a penitential pilgrimage, which I hope, with God's grace, will contribute to the journey of healing and reconciliation that has already begun.
In July, Pope Francis has had fewer official meetings, allowing him some time to rest. His last public appearances were for a meeting with the prince and princess of Monaco and the funeral of Jesuit priest, Fr. Diego Fares.
JRB
TR: KG
