Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Merida (Agenzia Fides) - The Apostolic Nuncio in Mexico, Archbishop Mgr. Christophe Pierre, said that in his next visit to the nation, Pope Benedict XVI will bring a message of peace and encouragement against violence. Specifying that the exact date and places the Holy Father will visit has not yet been defined, as this is the responsibility of the Vatican Secretariat of State, the Nuncio noted that Mexico is very important for the Catholic Church. "The pope will bring us courage for the difficult times, in order to have the strength to fight against violence and help us unite for peace", said the Nuncio in an impromptu press conference. Archbishop Pierre also said that papal trips are carried out without taking into account the conditions of poverty, economics or violence that exist in places that are chosen. The Apostolic Nuncio spoke before the closing celebration of the National Congress of Secular Institutes, which was held in Merida, Yucatan, and added that the date of the Holy Father’s visit will be announced in the coming months, apologizing for not being able to offer details because, he said, "it is not up to me to make the announcement, out of respect and because I do not have the authority to do so".
Accompanied by the Archbishop of Yucatan, Mgr. Emilio Carlos Berlie Belaunzarán, the Apostolic Nuncio said that violence in Mexico is a matter of concern and involves everyone, including the President of the Republic. In this sense, he considered that Pope Benedict XVI’s safety will be provided with adequate protection. Within the National Congress of Secular Institutes, it was reported that, as a prelude to the visit of the Pope, on 12 December there will be a great and solemn celebration in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 22/11/2011)
