During the general audience held in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican this Wednesday, December 18, Pope Francis devoted part of his speech to his recent trip to Corsicathe first he carried out on the island. A trip which visibly marked the Sovereign Pontiff.
In front of the faithful, the Pope praised the welcome given to him: « The recent trip to Corsica where I was welcomed so warmly…». He also mentioned the«fervent enthusiasm» residents, and was particularly moved by the presence of the children, whom he described as « great joy and great hope » et “promise of a better future”. This evocation indirectly referred to the importance of the intergenerational transmission of the faith, essential to the vitality of the Church.
The Pope insisted that faith in Corsica is not limited to a private dimension, saying: “ It’s not a private matter.”. According to him, it is expressed above all through a strong collective dimension, undoubtedly in reference to the popular piety which nourishes the community ties of the island.
Last Sunday, during his homily, the Holy Father encouraged the Corsicans to continue their journey in popular piety, “very deeply rooted” in their pilgrimages, processions and devotion. “You are a virtuous example in Europe”, he greeted, encouraging young people to become more involved in the socio-cultural and political life of the island.
With these words, Pope Francis not only thanked the Corsicans for their hospitality, but also paid tribute to an island where faith and culture intertwine to constitute a true community of life and hope.
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France
