Pope Francis will head to the Italian town of Trieste on Sunday, for what will be his last trip before going to Asia and Oceania, where he will make the longest visit of his pontificate—four countries in 12 days.
The Pope will travel via helicopter to Trieste. Once there, he will be welcomed by the President of the Italian Bishops' Conference, Cardinal Zuppi.
The main reason for his visit is to participate in the 50th Social Week of Italian Catholics. He will also meet with ecumenical representatives, migrants, university students and people with disabilities.
With this whirlwind trip of less than eight hours, Trieste joins the list of pastoral trips that Francis has made in 2024. He was in Verona and Venice a few months ago.
These trips have tested his health and the pontiff seems to have responded well. His activity in recent months has also been intense, with more than 20 official meetings per week.
These quick pastoral visits are a testament to Pope Francis' desire to be amongst the people—something that he has made evident throughout his pontificate.
CA
TR: AT
