Austen Ivereigh discusses how Pope Francis has spent his Feb. 12-17 visit seeking to bolster the Church for mission, while urging Mexicans to seek solutions to their many challenges by drinking deep from the wells of their own traditions.
International News
Mexicans Show Mercy, Hospitality to US Pilgrims
As soon as Rosa and Sergio Siller heard Pope Francis was visiting Ciudad Juarez, they knew they had to visit. The couple led a group of pilgrims from Sacred Heart parish in Phoenix to Sergio Siller’s hometown, the last stop on Pope Francis’ Feb. 12-17 visit to Mexico.
Francis Was Joyful After Meeting Russian Patriarch
Though their differences are recognizable and real, Pope Francis and Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill of Moscow emphasized their obligation as Christians and as bishops to encourage collaboration among Christians and charity for all who suffer.
Pope Warns Clergy About Snares of Devil
MORELIA, Mexico (CNS) – The devil loves Christians – especially priests and nuns – who are resigned to the violence and corruption around them, Pope Francis said.
El Paso Diocese Ready for Papal Rendezvous
Two days before Pope Francis’ main event in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, the Diocese of El Paso was coordinating the final touches to its own two papal events.
‘Tatic Francis’ Affirms Mexico’s Indigenous People in Visit to Chiapas
Paying homage to the culture and ancient wisdom of Mexico’s indigenous peoples, Pope Francis urged them to hold on to hope and condemned those who exploit their people and their land.
At Children’s Hospital, Pope Prescribes ‘Kindness Therapy’
A little bit of kindness can go a long way when recovering from illness, Pope Francis told a group of young patients. “Not only medicine but also ‘kindness therapy’ can make you live your time here with greater joy,” the pope said Feb. 14.
In Crime-Plagued Periphery, Pope Preaches Conversion
Pope Francis began his travels to Mexico’s “peripheries” by visiting an overcrowded, sprawling settlement known internationally as a hunting ground for girls to force into prostitution and for boys to enlist in the drug trade.
Pope Makes Long-Awaited Visit to Our Lady of Guadalupe
Pope Francis fulfilled his much-desired wish to pray in silence before the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Fight Corruption, Work for Common Good, Pope Tells Mexican Officials
Pope Francis told Mexico’s president and government officials that the country’s future can be bright only if government and business leaders put an end to a culture of “favors” for the influential and scraps for the poor.