On Friday, Pope Francis received — in the Clementine Hall of the Apostolic Vatican Palace –, the members of the National Association of Owners of the Traveling Show (ANESV), on the 70th anniversary of the Association’s activity.
The Holy Father thanked these representatives of the world of the traveling show, for the work they do with their art and joy in so many places and countries.
The Pope assured them that they have a mission: “to offer people, children but also adults and elderly, the opportunity of healthy and clean entertainment. It’s healthy and clean entertainment, without the need to “go down” to find material for the people to be entertained.”
And, “how can God’s hand not be” in this vocation, in this mission? “God loves us and wants us to be happy,” because His mark is wherever there is simple and clean joy.” Therefore, if they preserve these values, this authenticity and simplicity, they are messengers of Joy that pleases God, and that comes from Him.
“I know well that the life of itinerant work isn’t an easy life,” acknowledged the Pope. “I know the hardships you encounter with your families, in your constant going from place to place,” he said, including “in communities that don’t always appreciate the social value of this type of show.
And Francis exhorted them: “Don’t get discouraged, but continue on your way, so that our cities and our countries won’t lose the enjoyment of this particular beauty through your presence, your art and your joy.”
“Yours is a way that, thank God, is illumined by faith, a faith that you live above all in the family, and this is very important: the family on the way with God, encouraged by trust in Providence,” he continued.
“A faith that also finds in the different parishes you go through, places of reference for your spiritual break: for participation in the Eucharist, the preparation and celebration of the Sacraments, for the fraternal advice and help of the community.” The Pope hoped, therefore, “that there is always openness between your traveling communities and the parish communities.”
While good entertainment is the fruit of hours and hours of hard work, the Pope recognized, he expressed however that it has the ability to generate sweet joy in children” and make “grownups rediscover the joy of childhood.”
