Pope Francis resumes his weekly General Audiences after his July break, reflecting on his recently-concluded Apostolic Journey to Portugal for World Youth Day in Lisbon. The pontiff praises the event as an occasion to encounter Christ, grow in faith, and experience God’s love.
During his trip to Portugal, Pope Francis spent time praying to the Blessed Virgin Mary in Fatima. He recalls this experience and prays for the healing of the world from the “diseases of the soul” such as pride, lies, enmity, and violence.
Highlighting the faith and enthusiasm of the young people at World Youth Day, Pope Francis mentions the young people from Ukraine who brought a sorrowful account due to the ongoing fighting in their country. He commends their courage and calls for a world without fear, isolationism, and weapons, as demonstrated by the spirit of World Youth Day.
The Pontiff also prays for the blessings of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the young people of the world and the Portuguese people. He acknowledges the presence of young people at the General Audience and thanks everyone involved in organizing the Apostolic Journey.
This visit to Portugal marks the beginning of a series of Apostolic Journeys for Pope Francis in August and September. His next stops will be Mongolia and Marseille, France, where he will participate in an encounter focused on migration in the Mediterranean.
The Pope’s engagement with the youth and his emphasis on peace and unity continue to resonate with people worldwide. As he resumes his General Audiences, his message of love and healing serves as a reminder for all to strive for a world free from the ailments of the soul and to work towards a future without fear and conflict.
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