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.

Guest Blogger

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