Magisterium of Pope Francis is Inspiration to Overcome Difficulties, Says Mgr. Manuel Clemente

Magisterium of Pope Francis is Inspiration to Overcome Difficulties, Says Mgr. Manuel Clemente

Cardinal Patriarch welcomed the Holy Father to “our common home”.

The Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon greeted Pope Francis today at the Welcoming Ceremony of World Youth Day Lisbon 2023, describing the Holy Father's teaching as an inspiration to overcome difficulties, “with the enthusiasm and commitment of those who want to build a future in harmony with human aspirations and God's wishes”.

D. Manuel Clemente said that the Church in Portugal believes that this WYD will respond to Pope Francis' “constant call” for “a world of greater solidarity and fraternity”, something that, he said, “the truth of the Gospel demands and humanity most yearns for”.

“We greatly need to be rejuvenated by your presence and your word in these days, so that the beauty of the Gospel may shine forth even more” in these times when there is “no shortage of obstacles to the integral and peaceful development of peoples and between peoples”, the Cardinal Patriarch stressed.

“Peoples of which the young people gathered here are the eloquent and promising face and expression, even those who have come from countries where difficulties are not lacking,” he added.

“Thank you, Holy Father. Welcome to our common home! Welcome also to you, pilgrims of this day! You have been brought here by the same desire to meet, to share and to celebrate what moves you most on the way to a future of solidarity and fraternity, in every people and among all peoples,” he declared.

The Cardinal Patriarch then recalled that the motto of WYD is the Gospel reading which tells us how Mary of Nazareth, carrying Jesus in her womb, went in haste to meet her cousin Elizabeth.

“She carried Him in her womb, just as you, dear pilgrims, will carry the Gospel of peace in your hearts, from all to all. The Lady of the Visitation accompanies you during these days, so that your life may be, now and after, a permanent visitation to those who await the good that you will bring. This Day is the high point of your pilgrimage. May your life be fully realised!” he concluded.

PHOTOS: Lusa | Miguel A. Lopes e António Pedro Santos