Pope Francis: in Mexico as missionary of mercy and peace

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis delivered the first major address of his visit to Mexico on Saturday, to the nation’s civil authorities and the corps of diplomats present for the occasion. In his remarks, the Holy Father described himself once again as “a missionary of mercy and of peace,” and also as, “a son who wishes to pay homage to his mother, the Blessed Virgin of Guadalupe, and place himself under her watchful care.”

Listen to Chris Altieri's report: 

Praising Mexico’s unique cultural richness and stressing the central importance of Mexico in American life, the Holy Father had especial words of encouragement for the young people of the nation. “Mexico’s principal richness today has a young face,” said Pope Francis. “This makes it possible to contemplate and plan for a future, for a tomorrow,” and “offers hope and future prospects.” The Pope went on to say, “A people with a youthful population is a people able to renew and transform itself; it is an invitation to look to the future with hope and, in turn, it challenges us in a positive way here and now.”

Renewing his calls for concerted effort to build a just and inclusive society that cares for all its citizens without respect for age, race, or condition, and for responsible participation in and stewardship over the order of creation, Pope Francis said, “This is not just a question of laws which need to be updated and improved – something always necessary – but rather a need for urgent formation of the personal responsibility of each individual, with full respect for others as men and women jointly responsible in promoting the advancement of the nation.”

Pope Francis assured Mexico’s President Enrique Peña Nieto, that the Government of his nation  can rely on the cooperation of the Catholic Church, “Which,” he said, “has accompanied the life of this nation and which renews its commitment and willingness to serve the great causes of mankind: the building of the civilization of love.”