Mexico City, Mexico, Feb 13, 2016 / 11:26 am
Pope Francis met with the bishops of Mexico on Saturday at the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, where he highlighted the intercessory power of Our Lady of Guadalupe and encouraged the country's clergy to overcome their challenges through perseverance and unity.
"I know that by looking into the eyes of the Blessed Virgin, I am able to follow the gaze of her sons and daughters who, in her, have learned to express themselves," Pope Francis stated.
"I know that here is found the secret heart of each Mexican," he continued, saying "please allow la Guadalupana to be the starting point of everything I will say to you."
Pope Francis' words to the Mexican bishops come during his first apostolic voyage to the country of Mexico from Feb. 12-17. Earlier in the day, he met with President Enrique Pena Nieto and other civil authorities at the National Palace, and will later celebrate Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.