Pope Francis: Those who serve the sick serve Jesus

In a video-message, Pope Francis has sent greetings to participants in the inauguration of a new paediatric healthcare facility in Bangui, which was renovated and expanded through a financial contribution of the Holy See. 

The new facility has been entrusted to the organization and care of the Bambino Gesù Children's hospital. 

In his message, the Holy Father says the new hospital is "a concrete sign of mercy" that has its origins in the Year of Mercy. Pope Francis himself anticipated the formal opening of the Holy Year when, during his Apostolic Visit to the Central African Republic, he passed through the Holy Door of Bangui Cathedral on 29 November 2015. On that occasion, the Holy Father said, "Bangui now becomes the spiritual capital of prayer for the Father’s mercy. Let us all implore peace, mercy, reconciliation, forgiveness and love”

In his message, Pope Francis says, "I like to think that that Holy Door is still open and that the river of mercy gives life to this Children’s Hospital and to all those who will work there."