Saturday was a busy day for the Pope. He received as many as three delegations. If he demonstrated anything during these visits, it was his excellent linguistic skills.
Each of the speeches he gave was in a different language: English, Italian, and French.
The delegations he received were extremely varied.
For example, he used French to speak to this group of refugees. They were the first enslaved Africans to arrive in the Chagos Archipelago, an archipelago from which they were expelled by the United Kingdom. Now, they are demanding to return to the islands.
POPE LEO XIV
All peoples, even the smallest and weakest, must be respected by the powerful in their identity and their rights, especially the right to live on their lands; and no one can force them into forced exile.
He also met with several religious sisters. This year, the various congregations are holding their General Chapters. The Pope spoke about the family, encouraging the sisters in their work.
POPE LEO XIV
In our day, more than ever, families need to be supported, promoted, and encouraged: through prayer, example, and prompt social action, ready to meet their needs. Your charismatic witness and your work as consecrated women can do much in this regard.
Finally, the Pope met with a support group of Catholic political leaders. The Pope was greeted with warm applause. The African delegation accompanying them did not go unnoticed.
In his speech, Pope Leo used one of Saint Augustine's most famous works to guide his discourse: City of God.
POPE LEO XIV
In your vocation as Catholic lawmakers and public servants, you are called to be bridge-builders between the City of God and the City of Man.
Although no images have been released, the Pope's agenda for the day included a meeting with Monsignor Carlos Herrera, president of the Nicaraguan bishops, exiled in November 2024.
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