The pope met with dozens of pilgrims from Panama visiting to thank him for celebrating WYD in their country.
MSGR. JOSÉ DOMINGO ULLOA
Archbishop of Panama (Panama)
'The word 'thank you' will always be our greeting. Thank you for giving this small Central American isthmus the opportunity to celebrate a World Youth Day.'
Pope Francis told them he was very grateful for what he saw. He said Panama is a noble country, with a nobility at the service of people.
POPE FRANCIS
'I was very happy in Panama, I was very happy. One breathed normality, tenderness. It's a very beautiful thing. Thank you to all of you who have made this possible, and get ready for the second one that, surely... a successor of mine will call 150 years from now. There's no problem! Thank you. Pray for me.'
VICTOR CHANG
Executive Secretary, WYD Panama 2019
'It was a beautiful moment for all of us who participated. We came with great enthusiasm to see him, to thank him for the beautiful day he gave us in January.'
BETZAIDA TOULIER
Director of Catholic Panorama
'He told us again that we are a kind, happy, noble people. That big word really describes us because we are a welcoming people”. 'I brought the special magazine we made for the day. We made two very good magazines.'
EUNICE MENESES
Chief communications officer, Archdiocese of Panama
'The pope has indicated and reiterated he loved being in Panama. He felt our tenderness, and as woman, I really appreciate it.' 'We came out confident in the Lord that we have a task to do after World Youth Day. We have to take advantage of it, so more young people recognize their life project: be it a priest, a nun, a lay person or a joyful spouse in marriage. We want to help them make a good decision.'
The Ambassadors of Central America also participated in the meeting, as WYD was an event for the entire region.
Before saying goodbye, the pope wanted to pray with them.
Then, he gave them a blessing to bring back to all Central Americans.
