Pope Francis held his regular general audience on November 13, 2019, in St. Peter’s Square — despite gloomy skies and drizzling rain. But before his address in the square, he gave a brief address and welcome in the dry confines of Paul VI Hall to a large group of the sick.
The Holy Father said he wanted those in the hall to be able to attend without getting wet. And by greeting them they got a little more up close and personal time with Francis; they could watch his address in the square on a giant screen.
Here are the remarks of Pope Francis to the sick:
It’s raining outside. You will be tranquil here; you will be able to follow the Audience on the giant screen, tranquil, in peace, without getting wet. This is good. I thank you for this visit. It’s a joy for me when I see you come like this, with so many difficulties, but out of love for the Church, to say that you love the Church. This does good to all those that see you, and it does good to me. Thank you.
And now I go to the other group that is in the Square; it will be somewhat wet, but you remain here. We are united through the giant screen. Now I would like to give you all a blessing. All of us will pray first to Our Lady. [Recitation of the Hail Mary and Blessing]
Pray for me, and thank you for coming!
[Original text: Italian] [ZENIT’s translation by Virginia M. Forrester]© Libreria Editrice Vatican
