“Pope Francis in Marseille: A visit marked by humanity and compassion towards migrants”
Pope Francis recently made a two-day visit to Marseille, in southeastern France, highlighting the issue of migration and the situation in the Mediterranean. This visit was an opportunity for the sovereign pontiff to share his message of humanity and compassion towards migrants who risk their lives to reach Europe.
Upon his arrival in Marseille, Pope Francis was warmly welcomed by French Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne. Despite his 86 years, the Pope appeared determined and motivated from the first moments of his visit. On board his plane to Marseille, he expressed his high expectations for this trip and commented on the recent mass arrivals of migrants in Lampedusa.
Pope Francis has denounced the tragic fate of migrants in the Mediterranean, calling this sea an immense “graveyard”. He expressed his deep sadness at the cruelty and lack of humanity with which migrants are treated, after crossing the desert and confronting traffickers in Libya. These words reveal the pope’s desire to raise awareness among authorities and citizens of the need to welcome and help migrants seeking a better life.
During his visit to Marseille, Pope Francis went to the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, where he prayed with the clergy and prayed in front of a memorial dedicated to sailors and migrants missing at sea. He used this opportunity to declare that the Mediterranean, often perceived as a border, was in reality a “source of life” and called not to get used to the tragedies of shipwrecks.
Pope Francis also paid tribute to the associations which are mobilizing to save migrants at sea, denouncing the gestures of hatred which sometimes prevent them from doing their work. He urged governments and civil society to show humanity, overcome their fears and save lives.
This visit was also an opportunity for Pope Francis to meet French President Emmanuel Macron and to deliver the closing speech of the Mediterranean Meetings. He also planned a popemobile stroll along Avenue du Prado and a mass at the Vélodrome stadium.
In conclusion, Pope Francis’ visit to Marseille was marked by a strong message of humanity and solidarity towards migrants. Through his words and gestures, the Pope recalled the importance of welcoming and helping those fleeing war, poverty and persecution. His call to overcome fear and indifference resonates as an essential reminder of our responsibilities towards our brothers and sisters in distress.