The Pope spent time greeting comedians from around the world and exchanging a few jokes with them…
But he also delivered a personal message—he emphasized their ability to make people smile in the midst of difficulties and to hold those in power accountable without fear-mongering.
POPE FRANCIS
You manage to make people smile by also dealing with problems, small and large, of history. You denounce the excesses of power; you give voice to forgotten situations; you highlight abuses; you point out inappropriate behavior…. But without spreading alarms or terrors, anxiety or fear, as many of those who communicate do. You awaken the critical sense by making us laugh and smile.
Before ending, the prayer for good humor of St. Thomas More, which the Pope himself often recites, was read by an Italian actress, who said this to the Pope:
Thank you, on my behalf and on behalf of all my colleagues. We find ourselves alone at funerals and this is a moment of joy. Thank you.
Before closing the meeting, it is tradition for the group to take a photo with the Pope. But a serious environment for the picture didn't last for too long.
JRB
TR: AT
