With World Youth Day festivities set to begin in just three days, Pope Francis sent an encouraging message to the people of Poland in anticipation of his visit while the Vatican is confirming that the venue is safe and secure.
Vatican Radio is reporting on the touching message Pope Francis sent via video to all those people who have been working so hard to prepare for next week’s historic event.
“I am very anxious to meet you and to offer to the world a new sign of harmony, a mosaic of different faces, from many races, languages, peoples and cultures, but all united in the name of Jesus, Who is the face of Mercy,” he said in the video.
“For me it is a great gift of the Lord to visit you. You are a nation that throughout its history has experienced so many trials, some particularly difficult, and has persevered through the power of faith, upheld by the maternal hands of the Virgin Mary. I am certain that my pilgrimage to the shrine of Czestochowa will immerse me in this proven faith and do me so much good,” he said.
He went on to thank everyone, including the bishops, priests, men and women religious and lay faithful.
The pope made a special reference to families to whom he promised to “symbolically” bring the post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia.
“The moral and spiritual ‘health’ of a nation is seen in its families. That is why St. John Paul II showed such concern for engaged couples, young married couples and families. Continue along this road!”
He concluded by saying that this message was a “pledge of my affection,” and encouraged all to stay close in prayer. “I look forward to seeing you in Poland!”
Meanwhile, while releasing the Pope’s official itinerary for the week, Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi said that there are “no particular concerns in Poland over security” and said no groups have withdrawn due to security concerns.
“All the messages I’ve seen seem sincere and are of tranquility,” Fr. Lombardi said.
Commenting on the “atmosphere” in Krakow preceding the event, there appears to be little tension or worry.
“It seems to me to be a climate of great normality and tranquility,” he said.
Even though all of Europe remains on alert for terrorist attacks, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is reporting that there has been no direct threat to World Youth Day events to date; however, there is a travel advisory for Europe in effect which encourages all U.S. citizens to exercise caution and vigilance while abroad.
In addition, the Polish military and police have increased their presence and resources in the city in advance of WYD and no trucks or vehicles of any kind will be permitted into pilgrim activity areas other than those that have been pre-approved. Both the airport and main train station in Krakow have increased security for those entering the city by air or rail. Passports will be required.
The U.S. State Department has a special World Youth Day page for Poland-bound travelers and is recommending that all international travelers review the content, which can be found here.
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