Pope Francis sends video message to the people of Bangladesh

Pope Francis has sent a video message of greetings and blessings to the people of Bangladesh as he prepares to undertake a 3-day apostolic journey  to the nation from the 30 November to 2 December. It comes as the second leg of a journey that also takes him to Myanmar from 27 to 30 November.

In his message the Pope said he is looking forward to being with the people of Bangladesh and to proclaim the Gospel message of reconciliation, forgiveness and peace.

He highlighted the significance of a scheduled meeting with religious leaders and said that “We live in times in which believers and men of goodwill in all places are called to promote reciprocal understanding and respect and to sustain each other as members of one human family”.

Please find below the working translation of his message into English: 

Dear Friends,

            As I prepare to visit Bangladesh in a few days’ time, I wish to send a message of greeting and friendship to entire population. I look forward to the moment in which we shall be together.

I come as a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to proclaim his message of reconciliation, forgiveness and peace. My visit is to confirm the Catholic community in Bangladesh in its faith and witness to the Gospel that recognizes the dignity of every man and woman and calls us to open our hearts to others, especially to the poor and needy.

            At the same time I wish to encounter the entire population. In a special way, I look forward to meeting with religious leaders at Ramna, in Dhaka. We live in times in which believers and men of goodwill in all places are called to promote reciprocal understanding and respect, and to sustain each other as members of one human family.

            I know that there are many people in Bangladesh who are working hard to prepare for my visit and I thank them. I ask each of you for prayers so that my days with you may be a source of hope and encouragement for all. Upon you and your families I invoke the divine blessings of joy and peace! See you before long!