Pope Francis had an emotional encounter with a migrant from Cameroon, nicknamed Pato, who lost his wife and daughter while traveling through the desert in North Africa in an attempt to reach a better life.
The Pope heard about Pato's situation after he lost his family last July. He assured that he “prayed a lot for them.”
The encounter was a part of a meeting with a group of migrants and members of an organization called Mediterranea Saving Humans that assists with rescue missions.
The Pope reflected on the loneliness felt by people who abandon everything to start over. He encouraged them not to look at this feeling of loneliness with negativity, but rather with hope, as they made this decision to create a better future for their loved ones.
POPE FRANCIS
But the one who comes out to serve, he feels that so many do not follow him. You also feel that he is one who has not understood, is not understood. Do not be afraid. Go forth in fruitful solitude.
Pope Francis then extended a prayer for the protection of those present and the many others who are suffering.
AT
