Pilgrimages are eloquent expression of faith, means of evangelization, Pope says

January 21, 2016

Pilgrimages are among “the most eloquent expressions of the faith of a people for God,” Pope Francis said in a January 21 meeting with a group of pilgrimage organizers.

Pilgrimages are also “an authentic form of evangelization,” the Pope said. He remarked that everyone who makes a pilgrimage has his own personal needs, reasons, and prayers. Every pilgrim should be welcomed to a shrine, he said—-particularly because many will arrive physically tired and spiritually troubled.

The shrine to which pilgrims come is “a house of forgiveness, where each person encounters the tenderness of the Father,” the Pope continued. He underlined the importance of Confession as an integral part of the pilgrimage.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Pope: Welcome pilgrims in this Jubilee Year (Vatican Radio)
• Pilgrimage to shrines: an eloquent expression of faith (VIS)