Pope Francis has departed from Rome and is headed toward Latin America.
Shortly before 8:30 this morning, the papal flight, Alitalia A330, carrying the Pope, his entourage and journalists, took off from Rome’s Fiumicino Airport.
The Holy Father’s visit to Mexico marks his 12th international Apostolic Trip and his fourth journey to Latin America.
Before reaching the country, however, Francis will stop in Cuba’s capital of Havana, where he will meet with Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill, and they will sign a declaration. He is expected to arrive in the nation about 2 p.m. local time, after about 12 hours of flying.
Pope Francis is due to arrive at “Benito Juárez” International Airport in Mexico City at 7:30 p.m. local time, where a welcoming ceremony will be held.
During his intense itinerary, the Pope will meet with youth, prisoners, sick children, and will celebrate Mass in the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City. He also will be visiting poor towns, many marked by violence and drug trafficking.
Before leaving Italy, Pope Francis sent President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, a telegram in which he explains that his trip to Mexico is aimed to “support the mission of the local Church and bring a message of hope.” He also extended his “respectful greetings” to President Mattarella and imparted his apostolic blessing to the Italian people.
As is customary, the Pope sent telegrams to the Heads of States of the countries he flew over, including France, Spain and Portugal, in which he extended similar wishes in English.
***
On ZENIT’s Web page:
Pope’s Program in Mexico: https://zenit.org/articles/program-for-popes-mexico-visit/
