August 18, 2011. (Romereports.com) Benedict XVI is now in Madrid. The papal plane landed at Barajas airport at noon. He was then greeted by the local Church and civil authorities, including the King of Spain, Juan Carlos, who thanked the pope for his third visit to Spain.
The King of Spain also took time to remember the visits of John Paul II.
Don Juan Carlos
King of Spain“We dedicate a special remembrance to John Paul II who also made his third trip to Spain in 1989 for the fourth World Youth Day in Santiago de Compostela. For the second time, this youth event has returned to Spain and welcomes young people from every corner of the Earth.”The king spoke about the high unemployment currently facing many Spanish youth.
The pope also noted the concerns expressed by young people in finding work or feeling discrimination for their faith.
Benedict XVI“I say again to young people, with all the strength of my heart: let no one take away your peace, don't be ashamed of Christ. He had no qualms about becoming one of us and experiencing our anguish to bring us to God, and by doing this he saved us.”Benedict XVI gave his thanks to everyone that welcomed him in his first trip to the Spanish capital.
Benedict XVI“I send my greetings to those who are gathered here in Barajas and those following this event via radio and television. And also I give my thanks to those who gave such dedication and commitment, from Church and civil authorities, who have contributed their effort and work so that World Youth Day in Madrid could become a joyful and fruitful event.”For this World Youth Day, the pope has said that he would like to meet with young Catholics and non-Catholics from around the world.
Benedict XVI“On this special occasion we share aspirations, mutually exchange the wealth of cultures and experiences, encourage one another in a journey of faith and life, in which some believe they are alone or ignored in their everyday environments.” Benedict XVI was also greeted at the airport by pilgrims, a group of 60 children dressed as the Swiss Guard, and several groups of musicians known as tunas. The popemobile then departed, carrying the pontiff to his lunch with the apostolic nuncio of Spain, Mosignour Renzo Fratini, before the pope's meeting with young people in the Plaza de Cibeles.
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