It’s a small world after all
Children from around the globe are expected to descend on Rome on May 25 and 26 for the first World Day of Children. Pope Francis made the announcement at the Angelus on the feast of the Immaculate Conception in December.
The pope explained that the day will seek to answer the question, ‘What kind of world do we wish to pass on to the children who are growing up?’
Pope Francis said, “Like Jesus, we want to put children at the centre and care for them. I like it very much!” the pope replied after listening to a suggestion from nine-year-old Alessandro at a ‘popecast’ for World Youth Day in Lisbon.
“We can have it organised by the grandparents. A beautiful idea. I will think about it and see how to do it,” said the pontiff.
The event, to be promoted by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education, will see thousands of children from around the world travel to Rome. The Dicastery had already offered its patronage at the “Let’s Learn from Boys and Girls” event in November that saw Pope Francis join about 7,500 children in the Paul VI Hall.
Pope Francis listened to the questions of some of the “representatives”: Isidora from Brazil, Rania from Palestine, Massimo from Rome, Ivan from Ukraine, Kim Ngan from Vietnam, Antrànik from Syria, Celeste from Peru, Pauline from Congo, Sofia from the Philippines, Luxelle from Africa, Susa from Samoa Tonga, Chris from Haiti, Drew from Australia and Salma from Ghana.
“We have talked about many beautiful things, but the most beautiful thing that touches your hearts is peace, because you do not want war, you want there to be peace in the world,” Pope Francis said after meeting the children.
Pope Francis is continuing his mission of inclusivity and care for all ages having established the annual World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly in 2021 and the World Day of the Poor in 2017.
The Vatican believes the World Day of Children promises to be a momentous occasion, fostering global awareness and care for the youngest members of our communities!
Feature image. Pope Francis with children at his weekly audience in St Peter’s Square. Photo courtesy Church Times.
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