Pope returning to Vatican after
31st Apostolic Journey abroad
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| Pope Francis waves farewell to onlookers in Madagascar (Vatican Media) |
Pope Francis concluded his three-leg Apostolic Visit to
Mozambique, Madagascar, and Mauritius on Tuesday morning. He is scheduled to
touch down in Rome at about 7pm local time.
By Linda Bordoni
The Air Madagascar Airbus plane that is bringing Pope
Francis back to the Vatican at the end of his 31st Apostolic
Journey abroad has taken off from Antananarivo International Airport.
As is customary, the Pope’s outbound flight is always by
Italy’s national airline Alitalia, while the national airline of the country he
is leaving is the one to bring him back home.
Madagascar’s President, other political authorities, the
nation’s bishops, and a crowd of faithful were at the airport to see him off,
and the Guard of Honour gave him a final salute.
The Pope is wrapping up a six-day journey during which he
spent time with the people and with the Church of three very different
nations: Mozambique, which borders no less than six southern
African countries, as well as featuring a long Indian Ocean coastline and which
is looking to consolidate a lasting peace after a recent accord; the island
nation of Madagascar, with its unique biodiversity and deep pockets
of poverty; and finally the tiny island of Mauritius, with its
melting pot of cultures and religions.
According to airlines that have transported him during past
journeys, Pope Francis is an easy passenger, known for his humility and simple
taste. They assure that very few special accommodations are needed to welcome
the Pope onboard, and meal service is arranged with suggestions from the
Vatican.
Of course, the Airbus is equipped to host an onboard press
conference which traditionally takes place during the Pope’s return journey
after an Apostolic Visit abroad.
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