Pope in Paraguay: the countdown is over

Pope in Paraguay: the countdown is over

(Vatican Radio) Our correspondent in Asuncion, Linda Bordoni, spoke to the city’s Archbishop to learn his thoughts about the papal visit to Paraguay and discover more about the reality of life there.

The Archbishop of Asuncion, Edmundo Mellia, told me that for Paraguayans from all walks of life, the Pope’s visit is a gift from God.

“We have been awaiting this moment with great trepidation – he said – the countdown has finally ended”.

He explained to me that working closely with the deeply Catholic population, parish priests across the country have been preparing the faithful in three different ways: with prayer; with correct information regarding the Church, the Papacy and their faith; and involving them in a “serene, responsible and joyous” organization of the visit itself.

“Participation – he says – has been exceptional”.

The Pope’s presence here is bringing us much joy, Archbishop Mellia says, but life in Paraguay is not a bed of roses.

And pointing out that thanks to its wealth of natural resources which could well respond to the needs of its tiny population, Paraguay could be a “paradise for all, unfortunately – he said - it is so only for few”.

So, Mellia said, a wealth of resources is a fantastic thing when used for the common good of the nation. But when, because of political corruption and greed, these resources are not channelled towards education, healthcare, the wellbeing of the indigenous population, support of family farming and the good of families across society - but end up in the pockets of the powerful, what is needed is a change of heart, a deep conversion on the part of our political leaders.

And just as he has been doing so far during this intense three-nation Latin American journey, Pope Francis in Paraguay is expected to reiterate his call for social and environmental justice, just as he already has done in his very first discourse to Government authorities reminding them that “an economic development which fails to take into account the weakest and underprivileged is not an authentic development.” 

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