LISBON: Pope Francis began his five-day visit to Portugal on Wednesday to attend the World Youth Day festivities, urging Europe to take on the role of a “bridge and peacemaker” to end the war in Ukraine. The 86-year-old pontiff received a warm welcome with military honours in Lisbon, where one million pilgrims from around the world are expected to participate in the Catholic youth festival.
During his address to officials and diplomats at Lisbon’s Belem Cultural Centre, Pope Francis emphasized the need for Europe to show the world paths of peace and creative solutions to bring an end to the war in Ukraine. He asserted that the world needs Europe to assume its true role as a bridge and peacemaker in resolving conflicts.
Pope Francis’s Visit to Portugal
The pope’s visit comes amid reflection on the Church’s future and efforts to address priest paedophilia scandals. Despite undergoing major abdominal surgery just two months ago, Pope Francis embarked on his 42nd international trip, showing his dedication to engaging with young people and addressing various issues important to them, from ecology and social justice to the situation in Ukraine.
In his interactions with young people, the pope’s direct and spontaneous style has garnered popularity, making him relatable to different audiences. He is expected to address youth-focused themes and engage with young Catholics on various topics during the event-packed visit.
As part of the visit, Pope Francis will meet with clergy at the Jeronimos Monastery and may also address the clerical child sex abuse scandal in Portugal, which was brought to light by a commission of independent experts earlier this year.
The World Youth Day gathering, initially scheduled for August 2022 but postponed due to the pandemic, is the largest Catholic event globally and will include various events, concerts, and prayer sessions. The festival serves as an opportunity for young Catholics to express their opinions on relevant issues, and it also coincides with preparations for a global gathering in Rome to discuss potential reforms within the Church.
The Pope’s visit to Portugal is expected to be eventful, with various meetings and engagements scheduled. A closing mass will be held on Sunday at a waterside park on the outskirts of Lisbon. The event requires significant security and medical personnel, with around 16,000 law enforcement and civil protection personnel deployed to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the festivities.
