Mexico’s President Welcomed the Pope
This was a very friendly address. While we didn’t get much in way of a reaction from the Pope, toward the end there was a smile on his face. This was when President Peña Nieto said: ‘You will leave a mark in Mexico. I’m sure Mexico will leave a mark on you.’ It was a nice moment. This is an outline of what Peña Nieto said.
- Recognized Pope’s investiture as a head of state.
- Acknowledged that this was the first time a Pope was welcomed to the National Palace in Mexico City
- Also recognized that this visit transcends two heads of state meeting because of what he means to the people of Mexico.
- Praised him for his many qualities
- Acknowledged challenges of today: Inequality of wealth distribution, new exclusions of technology, migratory problems, intolerance, care of the planet.
- People today are faced with the choice of doing good, being indifferent or being led by evil.
- Mexico is in great need of renewing hope in solidarity.
- Governments need to provide the basic needs of society, and provide opportunities for people.
- Re-affirmed the need of a separation of Church and state in order to serve diversity, and promote dialogue.
- You will leave a mark in Mexico and I am sure Mexico will leave a mark in you.
- (This was the only part followed by a smile by the pope.)
- Closing words: We welcome your words and your light.
If you want to read the full text, here it is.
If you want to watch it, here it is.

ISN welcomes faith & justice related blog submissions from members of the Ignatian family. Please let us know of any blog ideas or posts using this form: ISN Blog Ideas
Leave a Reply
Want to join the discussion?Feel free to contribute!