Pope sends video-message ahead of Fatima pilgrimage
(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis has sent a
message of greeting to the people of Portugal as he prepares
to travel to Fatima on the 100th anniversary of the first
apparition of Mary to three shepherd children on May 13th 1917.
In a video-message released just two days
before his journey the Pope said that “Just hours from my pilgrimage to Our
Lady of Fatima, I find myself in a state of joyful expectation for our upcoming
encounter at the house of the Mother”.
I am well aware, he said, of the fact that you would like to
welcome me into your homes, into your communities and into your towns as well:
“I received your invitation!”
However, he continued, “I would have liked to be able to
accept that invitation but it is impossible, and I thank you for the
understanding with which my decision to keep my visit circumscribed to the
Fatima Sanctuary, where I hope to meet you at the feet of the Virgin Mother,
has been received”.
“It is in my role as universal pastor, Pope Francis said,
that I am about to present myself to her and I need to feel you close,
physically or spiritually so that we are one heart and one mind”.
In his message the Pope also said he is entrusting all
Portuguese faithful to Our Lady asking her to “whisper into the ears of each
one of them, and assure them that her Immaculate Heart is a refuge and a path
leading them to God”.
“With Mary, I come as pilgrim in hope and in peace” is the
logo of this pilgrimage, Pope Francis said, expressing his joy to learn of the
intense preparations that are taking place in view of this “blessed moment.”
Inviting all faithful to open their hearts to be able to
receive God’s gifts, the Pope thanked all faithful for their prayers for him
saying that he is in need of them as he is “a sinner amongst sinners”.
“In His name, I come to you with the joy of sharing the
Gospel of hope and peace. May the Lord bless you and Our Lady protect you” he
said.
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