Inspiring dialogue and peace

“While sadly in the world distances grow, and tensions and wars increase, may the new Saints inspire solutions of togetherness”, said Pope Francis at the Regina Caeli after the canonization Mass on Sunday, 15 May. The following is a translation of his words.

Dear brothers and sisters,

Before concluding this Eucharistic celebration, I wish to greet and thank you all: the brother Cardinals, the bishops, the priests, the men and women religious, especially those who belong to the spiritual families of the new Saints, and you, all the faithful, the faithful People of God, gathered here from many parts of the world.

I greet the official delegations from several countries, in particular Mr President of the Italian Republic. It is good to see that, with their evangelical witness, these Saints have fostered the spiritual and social growth of their respective nations and also of the entire human family. While sadly in the world distances grow, and tensions and wars increase, may the new Saints inspire solutions of togetherness and ways of dialogue, especially in the heart and mind of those who hold positions of great responsibility and are called upon to be agents of peace and not war.

I greet you all, dear pilgrims, as well as those who followed this Mass via the media.

And now, let us turn to the Virgin Mary, so that she may help us joyfully imitate the example of the new Saints.