Leon, Mexico, Mar 23, 2012 / 16:53 pm
After the papal plane landed in Guanajuato, Mexico this afternoon, Pope Benedict told the enthusiastic crowds that he arrives to their country as a “pilgrim of faith, hope and of love.”
During his official welcome address at the beginning of his March 23-26 visit, the Pope said to those gathered that he wished to strengthen and encourage those who believe in Christ.
He urged local Catholics to “act as missionaries” in order to contribute to “a respectful and peaceful coexistence” which comes from “the incomparable dignity of every human being” and which “no one has the right to disregard.”
“This dignity,” he emphasized, “is expressed especially in the fundamental right to freedom of religion.”