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| Pope Francis touches down in the US - as it happened | Pope Francis touches down in the US - as it happened |
| (18 days later) | |
| 12.39am BST | |
| 00:39 | |
| Rory Carroll | Rory Carroll |
| Rory Carroll in Washington DC has a wrap of today’s meet and greet between Barack Obama and Pope Francis: | Rory Carroll in Washington DC has a wrap of today’s meet and greet between Barack Obama and Pope Francis: |
| In a rare departure from protocol, the president, vice-president and their families turned up to greet the pontiff, underlining the huge expectations for a historic visit which will include talks at the White House and addresses to Congress, the United Nations and vast crowds in Washington, New York and Philadelphia. | In a rare departure from protocol, the president, vice-president and their families turned up to greet the pontiff, underlining the huge expectations for a historic visit which will include talks at the White House and addresses to Congress, the United Nations and vast crowds in Washington, New York and Philadelphia. |
| The US and Vatican flags fluttered from the cockpit as the papal plane taxied to a halt where an honour guard, dignitaries, clerics and schoolchildren waited. A high school band had set the mood earlier with a rendition of Pharrell Williams’ Happy. | The US and Vatican flags fluttered from the cockpit as the papal plane taxied to a halt where an honour guard, dignitaries, clerics and schoolchildren waited. A high school band had set the mood earlier with a rendition of Pharrell Williams’ Happy. |
| The 78-year-old Catholic leader smiled broadly as he touched US soil for the first time – and promptly received his first taste of US informality in the form of chants of “Francisco” and “Hey hey, ho ho, welcome to the USA!” | The 78-year-old Catholic leader smiled broadly as he touched US soil for the first time – and promptly received his first taste of US informality in the form of chants of “Francisco” and “Hey hey, ho ho, welcome to the USA!” |
| Related: Pope Francis meets Obama to begin unpredictable, not-quite-liberal US tour | Related: Pope Francis meets Obama to begin unpredictable, not-quite-liberal US tour |
| 12.18am BST | |
| 00:18 | |
| After a busy day of travel from the US to Cuba, Pope Francis’s schedule is clear for the rest of the evening as he prepares for five more days in the US. We’re wrapping up day four of our nine-day live blog coverage of the pontiff’s trip, but here are some highlights from Tuesday: | After a busy day of travel from the US to Cuba, Pope Francis’s schedule is clear for the rest of the evening as he prepares for five more days in the US. We’re wrapping up day four of our nine-day live blog coverage of the pontiff’s trip, but here are some highlights from Tuesday: |
| And ahead of a busy Wednesday in Washington, from the White House to the national mall to a controversial canonisation, here are 10 things to watch during Pope Francis’s trip to the US. | And ahead of a busy Wednesday in Washington, from the White House to the national mall to a controversial canonisation, here are 10 things to watch during Pope Francis’s trip to the US. |
| Updated | |
| at 12.40am BST | |
| 11.53pm BST | |
| 23:53 | |
| Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, said that in speaking to Congress (on Thursday) and at the UN (on Friday), there remain many issues that Francis will obviously address, including the environment and migration. | Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, said that in speaking to Congress (on Thursday) and at the UN (on Friday), there remain many issues that Francis will obviously address, including the environment and migration. |
| “This is clear: they are such fundamental questions of the day, that it is not possible that the Pope comes and does not speak about them,” Lombardi said. | “This is clear: they are such fundamental questions of the day, that it is not possible that the Pope comes and does not speak about them,” Lombardi said. |
| The Vatican spokespeople claim they still don’t know exactly what Francis will say in the halls of power. | The Vatican spokespeople claim they still don’t know exactly what Francis will say in the halls of power. |
| Lombardi said he also did not know what the pope said to Barack Obama as they walked from the papal plane to their individual motorcades. The Pope rode in a Fiat. | Lombardi said he also did not know what the pope said to Barack Obama as they walked from the papal plane to their individual motorcades. The Pope rode in a Fiat. |
| “Pope Francis has a charisma in the personal encounter with other persons and also big political leaders,” Lombardi said at the press conference. “He approach the other as a concrete person, not so much as a political leader who has a particular ideology.” | “Pope Francis has a charisma in the personal encounter with other persons and also big political leaders,” Lombardi said at the press conference. “He approach the other as a concrete person, not so much as a political leader who has a particular ideology.” |
| “This is something wonderful and very often this is another way to approach the big question and solve something,” he said. | “This is something wonderful and very often this is another way to approach the big question and solve something,” he said. |
| Again, Lombardi spoke of the importance of the pope’s encounters with people and how he connects with them, not just the content of their interaction. “I think this is maybe more important than our agenda of points would indicate,” Lombardi said. | Again, Lombardi spoke of the importance of the pope’s encounters with people and how he connects with them, not just the content of their interaction. “I think this is maybe more important than our agenda of points would indicate,” Lombardi said. |
| The press conference has now ended. | The press conference has now ended. |
| Updated | |
| at 12.41am BST | |
| 11.45pm BST | |
| 23:45 | |
| There are no plans for Pope Francis on the official schedule for tonight, but tomorrow, he will visit the White House, pray with bishops at St Matthew’s Cathedral and canonize Junipero Serra. | There are no plans for Pope Francis on the official schedule for tonight, but tomorrow, he will visit the White House, pray with bishops at St Matthew’s Cathedral and canonize Junipero Serra. |
| 11.39pm BST | |
| 23:39 | |
| 11.36pm BST | |
| 23:36 | |
| Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi spoke about the decision to have the pope travel around Washington DC in a fiat. “It is very easy to recognize where the Pope is because he is in the littlest car in the motorcade,” Lombardi said. | Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi spoke about the decision to have the pope travel around Washington DC in a fiat. “It is very easy to recognize where the Pope is because he is in the littlest car in the motorcade,” Lombardi said. |
| The Guardian’s Rome correspondent Stephanie Kirchgaessner has more on the Fiat: | The Guardian’s Rome correspondent Stephanie Kirchgaessner has more on the Fiat: |
| To see such an important foreign dignitary driving off in a Fiat was so unusual that CNN anchor Jake Tapper speculated on live television that there “must be” some “bells and whistles” of which the public was not aware. As if the Fiat had just been passed on to the pope from James Bond. | To see such an important foreign dignitary driving off in a Fiat was so unusual that CNN anchor Jake Tapper speculated on live television that there “must be” some “bells and whistles” of which the public was not aware. As if the Fiat had just been passed on to the pope from James Bond. |
| The choice of vehicle may also have reflected Pope Francis’s commitment to environmental stewardship. His encyclical on climate change, which will be a major focus of his five-day trip to the US and his speech before the United Nations, is focused on the need to care for both the environment and the poor. The politically savvy Vatican would surely have wanted to avoid the pope being seen in a gas guzzler. | The choice of vehicle may also have reflected Pope Francis’s commitment to environmental stewardship. His encyclical on climate change, which will be a major focus of his five-day trip to the US and his speech before the United Nations, is focused on the need to care for both the environment and the poor. The politically savvy Vatican would surely have wanted to avoid the pope being seen in a gas guzzler. |
| 11.33pm BST | |
| 23:33 | |
| With Pope Francis in Washington DC – the politicians are calling. | With Pope Francis in Washington DC – the politicians are calling. |
| Pope Francis, I hope my Republican colleagues listen to your message of compassion on #immigration. #AskthePope #PopeInDC | Pope Francis, I hope my Republican colleagues listen to your message of compassion on #immigration. #AskthePope #PopeInDC |
| .@marcorubio: As a Catholic, I believe @Pontifex speaks w/ infallibility on moral issues, but on economic issues he’s a person w/ opinions. | .@marcorubio: As a Catholic, I believe @Pontifex speaks w/ infallibility on moral issues, but on economic issues he’s a person w/ opinions. |
| 11.22pm BST | |
| 23:22 | |
| The archbishop of Houston, Daniel DiNardo, said that he and his fellow clergy member’s role during the pope’s visit is to: “step back and leave message of holy father to be received in all of its fullness.” | The archbishop of Houston, Daniel DiNardo, said that he and his fellow clergy member’s role during the pope’s visit is to: “step back and leave message of holy father to be received in all of its fullness.” |
| At DC press conf welcoming pope, top bishop says Francis is "inviting us to rise above whatever may divide us culturally and politically" | At DC press conf welcoming pope, top bishop says Francis is "inviting us to rise above whatever may divide us culturally and politically" |
| 11.19pm BST | |
| 23:19 | |
| Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said that the pope’s trips around the world are expanding his experience as a “universal pastor”. | Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said that the pope’s trips around the world are expanding his experience as a “universal pastor”. |
| “The speech for Congress and UN are interesting because they are from a person who has reached great moral authority and is able to interpret the question that come from the global mankind and try to give orientation and answers to the people of the entire world,” Lombardi said. | “The speech for Congress and UN are interesting because they are from a person who has reached great moral authority and is able to interpret the question that come from the global mankind and try to give orientation and answers to the people of the entire world,” Lombardi said. |
| Updated | |
| at 11.23pm BST | |
| 11.14pm BST | |
| 23:14 | |
| Vatican spokesperson Federico Lombardi and US bishops are holding a press conference about the pope’s visit to the US now. The livestream is here. | Vatican spokesperson Federico Lombardi and US bishops are holding a press conference about the pope’s visit to the US now. The livestream is here. |
| Updated | |
| at 11.23pm BST | |
| 11.10pm BST | |
| 23:10 | |
| Environmental activist Bill McKibben writes for the Guardian about two major figures getting involved in the climate change debate: Pope Francis and presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton. | Environmental activist Bill McKibben writes for the Guardian about two major figures getting involved in the climate change debate: Pope Francis and presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton. |
| Today, Clinton announced that she opposes the controversial Keystone XL pipeline and Pope Francis has spoke repeatedly about the need to address climate change. | Today, Clinton announced that she opposes the controversial Keystone XL pipeline and Pope Francis has spoke repeatedly about the need to address climate change. |
| It’s not really divine intervention that moved the former Secretary of State (who had originally gamed the State Department review process to approve the project). It was hard hard organizing – thousands went to jail, hundreds of thousands marched, millions wrote public comments. And that work has gone far beyond this one pipeline: its helped turn almost every fossil fuel infrastructure project on the planet into a full-on battle. | It’s not really divine intervention that moved the former Secretary of State (who had originally gamed the State Department review process to approve the project). It was hard hard organizing – thousands went to jail, hundreds of thousands marched, millions wrote public comments. And that work has gone far beyond this one pipeline: its helped turn almost every fossil fuel infrastructure project on the planet into a full-on battle. |
| Bernie Sanders played his part too. He’s made no direct criticism of Hillary, but he has pointed out regularly how odd it is she has no position on this key issue. As he rose in the polls, her determination to dodge the issue clearly wavered. | Bernie Sanders played his part too. He’s made no direct criticism of Hillary, but he has pointed out regularly how odd it is she has no position on this key issue. As he rose in the polls, her determination to dodge the issue clearly wavered. |
| But the pope did help too: his powerful encyclical last summer is a reminder to every politician of exactly which way the wind is now blowing. That wind is in the sails of the climate movement now, and so there will be more days like this to come. Whether they come in time to slow the planet’s careening new physics is an open question, but at last the political and financial climate has begun to change almost as fast as the physical one. | But the pope did help too: his powerful encyclical last summer is a reminder to every politician of exactly which way the wind is now blowing. That wind is in the sails of the climate movement now, and so there will be more days like this to come. Whether they come in time to slow the planet’s careening new physics is an open question, but at last the political and financial climate has begun to change almost as fast as the physical one. |
| 10.52pm BST | |
| 22:52 | |
| From Washington DC, the Guardian’s US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg and DC bureau chief Dan Roberts report on how Democrats hope the Pope’s visit can tone down climate change deniers in Congress. Republicans, meanwhile, are hoping that Francis steers clear of the issue. | From Washington DC, the Guardian’s US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg and DC bureau chief Dan Roberts report on how Democrats hope the Pope’s visit can tone down climate change deniers in Congress. Republicans, meanwhile, are hoping that Francis steers clear of the issue. |
| Sheldon Whitehouse, the Democratic senator from Rhode Island, said he believed the call to action from a popular pope made it increasingly difficult for Republicans to continue to dismiss the science on climate change. “I think this whole edifice of climate denial is crumbling,” Whitehouse told the Guardian. | Sheldon Whitehouse, the Democratic senator from Rhode Island, said he believed the call to action from a popular pope made it increasingly difficult for Republicans to continue to dismiss the science on climate change. “I think this whole edifice of climate denial is crumbling,” Whitehouse told the Guardian. |
| As Pope Francis was taking his first steps on American soil, Hillary Clinton broke her lengthy silence on the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, saying she opposed the project and did not believe it was in the interests of “what we need to do to combat climate change”. | As Pope Francis was taking his first steps on American soil, Hillary Clinton broke her lengthy silence on the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, saying she opposed the project and did not believe it was in the interests of “what we need to do to combat climate change”. |
| Even before the pope’s indictment of capitalism and climate change in his encyclical in June, Republicans in Congress had been slowly edging away from outright climate denial. | Even before the pope’s indictment of capitalism and climate change in his encyclical in June, Republicans in Congress had been slowly edging away from outright climate denial. |
| Related: Democrats hopeful pope's visit will end climate change denial in Congress | Related: Democrats hopeful pope's visit will end climate change denial in Congress |
| 10.33pm BST | |
| 22:33 | |
| Adam Brereton | Adam Brereton |
| Why are some American Catholics a bit cagey (to put things lightly) about Pope Francis? I’d suggest that one reason is the enduring popularity of the barnstorming mid-century Catholic televangelist, Bishop Fulton Sheen. His televised sermons against communism and his books and epigrams on the spiritual life and both still very popular in the US and abroad. Here’s a short example: | Why are some American Catholics a bit cagey (to put things lightly) about Pope Francis? I’d suggest that one reason is the enduring popularity of the barnstorming mid-century Catholic televangelist, Bishop Fulton Sheen. His televised sermons against communism and his books and epigrams on the spiritual life and both still very popular in the US and abroad. Here’s a short example: |
| “Free these people. That’s the first thing that we have to solve in the world ... no other problem will be solved until we liberate them.” | “Free these people. That’s the first thing that we have to solve in the world ... no other problem will be solved until we liberate them.” |
| “Our weakness, really, is that we’re not sure in America that there is any truth ... [but] the choice before the world is either brotherhood in Christ, or comradeship in antichrist. They have chosen that particular comradeship!” | “Our weakness, really, is that we’re not sure in America that there is any truth ... [but] the choice before the world is either brotherhood in Christ, or comradeship in antichrist. They have chosen that particular comradeship!” |
| 10.22pm BST | |
| 22:22 | |
| 10.04pm BST | |
| 22:04 | |
| Throughout the pope’s visit to the US, Sister Simone Campbell, executive director of national Catholic social justice lobby NETWORK, will be joining our minute-by-minute coverage here on the Guardian US live blog. | Throughout the pope’s visit to the US, Sister Simone Campbell, executive director of national Catholic social justice lobby NETWORK, will be joining our minute-by-minute coverage here on the Guardian US live blog. |
| You might know Sister Simone better as the leader of the so-called “Nuns on the Bus” tour that has disrupted American politics with a modern vision of Catholicism. Here’s her first dispatch, looking ahead to Francis in Washington, where the bus ended a 13-day, 2,000-mile tour: | You might know Sister Simone better as the leader of the so-called “Nuns on the Bus” tour that has disrupted American politics with a modern vision of Catholicism. Here’s her first dispatch, looking ahead to Francis in Washington, where the bus ended a 13-day, 2,000-mile tour: |
| As we head to DC on the last leg of our two-week bus trip, our excitement is mounting. We carry with us the stories of all of the people we have met along our 2000 mile Nuns on the Bus journey. In the process, we learned that Pope Francis is correct when he says the realities of our people are more important than any theory we can imagine. | As we head to DC on the last leg of our two-week bus trip, our excitement is mounting. We carry with us the stories of all of the people we have met along our 2000 mile Nuns on the Bus journey. In the process, we learned that Pope Francis is correct when he says the realities of our people are more important than any theory we can imagine. |
| We learned of the anguish of racism and the worry of black mothers for the safety of their children. Amy told us in St Louis that she quizzes her 10th grade and eighth-grade sons about what to do “when” the police stop them. She tells them to keep their hands out of their pockets and to do what the police tell them. | We learned of the anguish of racism and the worry of black mothers for the safety of their children. Amy told us in St Louis that she quizzes her 10th grade and eighth-grade sons about what to do “when” the police stop them. She tells them to keep their hands out of their pockets and to do what the police tell them. |
| Her eighth-grader asked her recently, “Mommy, how long will this go on?” She had tears in her eyes as she told us she had to tell him: “For the rest of your life!” Her testimony broke my heart. Our political leaders must respond to the unique challenges confronting communities of color, including white racism within our police forces that has led to so much fear and divisions. | Her eighth-grader asked her recently, “Mommy, how long will this go on?” She had tears in her eyes as she told us she had to tell him: “For the rest of your life!” Her testimony broke my heart. Our political leaders must respond to the unique challenges confronting communities of color, including white racism within our police forces that has led to so much fear and divisions. |
| Pope Francis challenges us to know that we are all connected and need to act as brothers and sisters to each other. | Pope Francis challenges us to know that we are all connected and need to act as brothers and sisters to each other. |
| I carry with me 15-year-old Katherine and her five siblings struggling here in the U.S. after their parents were deported when they went to pay a traffic ticket. Our broken immigration system is tearing families apart. | I carry with me 15-year-old Katherine and her five siblings struggling here in the U.S. after their parents were deported when they went to pay a traffic ticket. Our broken immigration system is tearing families apart. |
| In fact, it is so bad that Katherine’s 12-year-old sister Stephanie attempted suicide in the aftermath of her pain. She seemed to think that it would be better if there were one less to worry about. I come back from this trip with a renewed commitment to changing our broken immigration system. | In fact, it is so bad that Katherine’s 12-year-old sister Stephanie attempted suicide in the aftermath of her pain. She seemed to think that it would be better if there were one less to worry about. I come back from this trip with a renewed commitment to changing our broken immigration system. |
| In the United States we exploit undocumented immigrant labor and then act sanctimonious about how “they broke the law!” | In the United States we exploit undocumented immigrant labor and then act sanctimonious about how “they broke the law!” |
| Pope Francis calls us to welcome the stranger and care for our families. He says that there are no borders on God’s love. | Pope Francis calls us to welcome the stranger and care for our families. He says that there are no borders on God’s love. |
| I also carry with me the joyful news that innovative work is being done in every city we visited. I celebrate the interfaith organizing that is happening in Evansville, Indiana. Nashville, Tennessee is the home of the first Magdalen House and Thistle Farms where formerly incarcerated and addicted women are finding new life in recovery. They are running a for-profit business that is healing our planet and healing the community. | I also carry with me the joyful news that innovative work is being done in every city we visited. I celebrate the interfaith organizing that is happening in Evansville, Indiana. Nashville, Tennessee is the home of the first Magdalen House and Thistle Farms where formerly incarcerated and addicted women are finding new life in recovery. They are running a for-profit business that is healing our planet and healing the community. |
| In Little Rock, Arkansas, the low-income blighted neighborhood is banding together to plant flowers and vegetables to beautify their community and grow hope. | In Little Rock, Arkansas, the low-income blighted neighborhood is banding together to plant flowers and vegetables to beautify their community and grow hope. |
| In Wheeling, West Virginia, Grow Ohio Valley was started by energetic folks who want to bridge the divide between their neighbors and fresh food. Their “framers market truck” takes fresh food into all sorts of communities. | In Wheeling, West Virginia, Grow Ohio Valley was started by energetic folks who want to bridge the divide between their neighbors and fresh food. Their “framers market truck” takes fresh food into all sorts of communities. |
| At every turn on our tour we embraced heartbreak and hope. I realize that this is the message of Pope Francis. Know the struggle of our neighbors. Let our hearts be broken open. Then we have room for everyone in our lives and the new will burst forth. This is the essence of joy and our experience on the bus. We Nuns on the Bus celebrate our pilgrimage and the arrival of Pope Francis. May these few days of his visit help our nation renew our founding principles so that “We the People” will once again come together to work for the common good. | At every turn on our tour we embraced heartbreak and hope. I realize that this is the message of Pope Francis. Know the struggle of our neighbors. Let our hearts be broken open. Then we have room for everyone in our lives and the new will burst forth. This is the essence of joy and our experience on the bus. We Nuns on the Bus celebrate our pilgrimage and the arrival of Pope Francis. May these few days of his visit help our nation renew our founding principles so that “We the People” will once again come together to work for the common good. |
| Updated | |
| at 10.26pm BST | |
| 10.01pm BST | |
| 22:01 | |
| Rory Carroll | Rory Carroll |
| The Guardian’s Rory Carroll filed this dispatch from Washington DC: | The Guardian’s Rory Carroll filed this dispatch from Washington DC: |
| Bishop Christopher Coyne, the incoming director of the communications committee of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, told me that liberals and conservatives who expect Francis to promote their agendas will likely end up frustrated. | Bishop Christopher Coyne, the incoming director of the communications committee of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, told me that liberals and conservatives who expect Francis to promote their agendas will likely end up frustrated. |
| “There will be disappointment. He’s not a politician. He’s a leader of a faith and will say things that are challenging to people across all sectors of life.” | “There will be disappointment. He’s not a politician. He’s a leader of a faith and will say things that are challenging to people across all sectors of life.” |
| Some of that expectation, said Coyne, stemmed from over-eager extrapolation of Francis’s famous “who am I to judge?” comment, which was a response to a narrow question about an allegedly gay staffer in the Vatican. | Some of that expectation, said Coyne, stemmed from over-eager extrapolation of Francis’s famous “who am I to judge?” comment, which was a response to a narrow question about an allegedly gay staffer in the Vatican. |
| The bishop reckoned Francis will avoid explicit forays into hotbutton political topics. “I’d be very surprised if he were to insert himself into the more particular issues of our country. But you never know. He’s a man of strong opinions who often surprises us with them.” | The bishop reckoned Francis will avoid explicit forays into hotbutton political topics. “I’d be very surprised if he were to insert himself into the more particular issues of our country. But you never know. He’s a man of strong opinions who often surprises us with them.” |
| Coyne was speaking from the papal media filing room in the bowels of the Marriott Marquis hotel in Washington. | Coyne was speaking from the papal media filing room in the bowels of the Marriott Marquis hotel in Washington. |
| Francis, he added, would stick mainly to Spanish because of limited English. “He took three months of English in Dublin in 1980.” Asked if that meant a pope with an Irish accent, he smiled. “We’ll see.” | Francis, he added, would stick mainly to Spanish because of limited English. “He took three months of English in Dublin in 1980.” Asked if that meant a pope with an Irish accent, he smiled. “We’ll see.” |
| Fr Manuel Dorantes, another clerical media point man, said he had been swotting up on Argentine Spanish, a version very different from his own Mexican Spanish. “The accent and expressions are really something.” | Fr Manuel Dorantes, another clerical media point man, said he had been swotting up on Argentine Spanish, a version very different from his own Mexican Spanish. “The accent and expressions are really something.” |
| 9.50pm BST | |
| 21:50 | |
| More from my colleague Angela Bruno: | More from my colleague Angela Bruno: |
| Telemundo have tweeted a report from correspondent Rogelio Mora-Tagle, who traveled from Cuba with Francisco. | Telemundo have tweeted a report from correspondent Rogelio Mora-Tagle, who traveled from Cuba with Francisco. |
| According to the Spanish language network, the pope wanted to enter the United States via Tijuana, Mexico – as do many undocumented immigrants. | According to the Spanish language network, the pope wanted to enter the United States via Tijuana, Mexico – as do many undocumented immigrants. |
| El #PapaFrancisco quería entrar a #EEUU por #Tijuana #México como hacen algunos #indocumentados, según dijo a corresponsal @RogerMoraTagle | El #PapaFrancisco quería entrar a #EEUU por #Tijuana #México como hacen algunos #indocumentados, según dijo a corresponsal @RogerMoraTagle |
| The Pope has been a vocal advocate for migrant rights, and many of the activist groups that have traveled to Washington DC for his visit are there to draw attention to the cause of immigration reform. | The Pope has been a vocal advocate for migrant rights, and many of the activist groups that have traveled to Washington DC for his visit are there to draw attention to the cause of immigration reform. |
| In this Guardian piece on the progressive groups hoping to use Pope Francis’ visit as a platform to raise awareness, Ed Pilkington writes: | In this Guardian piece on the progressive groups hoping to use Pope Francis’ visit as a platform to raise awareness, Ed Pilkington writes: |
| “Pro-immigration groups see the pope’s arrival as a possible balm for the wounds of America’s Hispanic communities amid the increasingly shrill anti-immigration rhetoric coming from Republican presidential candidates. | “Pro-immigration groups see the pope’s arrival as a possible balm for the wounds of America’s Hispanic communities amid the increasingly shrill anti-immigration rhetoric coming from Republican presidential candidates. |
| As Maribel Hastings of America’s Voice put it, writing in Spanish: “Millions of undocumented people see in the pope a defender and intermediary who can change hearts.” | As Maribel Hastings of America’s Voice put it, writing in Spanish: “Millions of undocumented people see in the pope a defender and intermediary who can change hearts.” |
| (Mora-Tagle also took advantage of his time on the papal plane to give his Emmy to the pope. What the pontiff made of that gift has not been reported.) | (Mora-Tagle also took advantage of his time on the papal plane to give his Emmy to the pope. What the pontiff made of that gift has not been reported.) |
| 9.41pm BST | |
| 21:41 | |
| 9.41pm BST | |
| 21:41 | |
| Meanwhile in Iowa, Hillary Clinton has come out in opposition to the contentious Keystone XL pipeline – an environmental issue that has loomed large over American politics for years ... and until now seen silence from the former Secretary of State. | Meanwhile in Iowa, Hillary Clinton has come out in opposition to the contentious Keystone XL pipeline – an environmental issue that has loomed large over American politics for years ... and until now seen silence from the former Secretary of State. |
| The campaign-trail announcement was no doubt coordinated with the arrival of Pope Francis. As my colleague Ed Pilkington wrote earlier today, environmental activists have been hoping the pontiff will continue his environmental message from the encyclical and take it the United Nations, which he will address on Friday. | The campaign-trail announcement was no doubt coordinated with the arrival of Pope Francis. As my colleague Ed Pilkington wrote earlier today, environmental activists have been hoping the pontiff will continue his environmental message from the encyclical and take it the United Nations, which he will address on Friday. |
| Related: US progressives hope Pope Francis can bring moral force to key issues | Related: US progressives hope Pope Francis can bring moral force to key issues |
| Updated | |
| at 9.51pm BST | |
| 9.30pm BST | |
| 21:30 | |
| Pope Francis and Barack Obama shook hands again before getting into separate motorcades. The pope’s vehicle today is no limousine, nor even a Popemobile: no, the pontiff took off in a small Fiat, from the Italian automaker. | Pope Francis and Barack Obama shook hands again before getting into separate motorcades. The pope’s vehicle today is no limousine, nor even a Popemobile: no, the pontiff took off in a small Fiat, from the Italian automaker. |
| No limo for the Pope? He will apparently drive around in DC in a #Fiat! #PopeInUS pic.twitter.com/hpBU9jsvFi | No limo for the Pope? He will apparently drive around in DC in a #Fiat! #PopeInUS pic.twitter.com/hpBU9jsvFi |
| While in the US, Francis will be travelling in a Jeep Wrangler Popemobile. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is the maker of both vehicles. | While in the US, Francis will be travelling in a Jeep Wrangler Popemobile. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is the maker of both vehicles. |
| #PopeFrancis leaves Andrews AFB in a Fiat 500 pic.twitter.com/wftxnmTnlv | #PopeFrancis leaves Andrews AFB in a Fiat 500 pic.twitter.com/wftxnmTnlv |
| love the shocked American TV commentary at the notion one can drive in a car smaller than a house and still get around. #PopeInDC | love the shocked American TV commentary at the notion one can drive in a car smaller than a house and still get around. #PopeInDC |
| Want to know how the Popemobile began? The Washington Post has a lovely illustrated history of the vehicle. | Want to know how the Popemobile began? The Washington Post has a lovely illustrated history of the vehicle. |
| Updated | |
| at 9.34pm BST | |
| 9.18pm BST | |
| 21:18 | |
| You can relive Pope Francis and Barack Obama’s first moments together on US soil with this gif: | You can relive Pope Francis and Barack Obama’s first moments together on US soil with this gif: |
| #PopeFrancis greeted and welcomed by @POTUS @FLOTUS http://t.co/sOLaXVvH2R #PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/zKBNCTSuc0 | #PopeFrancis greeted and welcomed by @POTUS @FLOTUS http://t.co/sOLaXVvH2R #PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/zKBNCTSuc0 |
| 9.15pm BST | |
| 21:15 | |
| The pontiff told reporters on the flight to Washington DC that he was not aware of alleged arrests of dissidents in Cuba. | The pontiff told reporters on the flight to Washington DC that he was not aware of alleged arrests of dissidents in Cuba. |
| Pope Francis also denied knowledge of dissidents who were arrested trying to meet him. Asked if he had wanted to meet dissidents in Cuba, and what he would have wanted to say to them, the Pope demurred, declining to answer hypothetical questions. Reports have indicated that some 50 dissidents were arrested outside the Holy See’s embassy where Pope Francis stayed in Havana. Pope Francis added that he declined numerous requests for private audiences, including those from heads of state. | Pope Francis also denied knowledge of dissidents who were arrested trying to meet him. Asked if he had wanted to meet dissidents in Cuba, and what he would have wanted to say to them, the Pope demurred, declining to answer hypothetical questions. Reports have indicated that some 50 dissidents were arrested outside the Holy See’s embassy where Pope Francis stayed in Havana. Pope Francis added that he declined numerous requests for private audiences, including those from heads of state. |
| He also suggested that more Cuban prisoners may be freed in the future, in addition to the 3,000 that the Cuban government released prior to his arrival. He called life imprisonment “a hidden death penalty” and reiterated the Church’s commitment to asking for pardons. Pope Francis will visit Philadelphia’s largest jail on Sunday and meet with prisoners and their families. | He also suggested that more Cuban prisoners may be freed in the future, in addition to the 3,000 that the Cuban government released prior to his arrival. He called life imprisonment “a hidden death penalty” and reiterated the Church’s commitment to asking for pardons. Pope Francis will visit Philadelphia’s largest jail on Sunday and meet with prisoners and their families. |
| Full story here. | Full story here. |
| 9.10pm BST | |
| 21:10 | |
| Four students – in first, third, fifth and seventh grade – presented Pope Francis with flowers at the end of the red carpet. The children attend Catholic schools in the Washington DC area, according to CNN. | Four students – in first, third, fifth and seventh grade – presented Pope Francis with flowers at the end of the red carpet. The children attend Catholic schools in the Washington DC area, according to CNN. |
| First of many #PopeFrancis greetings of school kids. Smiles all around. #PopeInDC #PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/Qw0Swz1x2U | First of many #PopeFrancis greetings of school kids. Smiles all around. #PopeInDC #PopeInDC pic.twitter.com/Qw0Swz1x2U |
| Updated | |
| at 9.11pm BST | |
| 9.08pm BST | |
| 21:08 | |
| Obamas greet Pope at base of stairs of Papal Plane pic.twitter.com/QhdZnAukHW | Obamas greet Pope at base of stairs of Papal Plane pic.twitter.com/QhdZnAukHW |
| 9.07pm BST | |
| 21:07 | |
| Barack Obama, his wife Michelle and their daughters Malia and Sasha walked onto the tarmac of Andrews Air Force Base to greet Pope Francis at the end of the red carpet outside his aircraft. | Barack Obama, his wife Michelle and their daughters Malia and Sasha walked onto the tarmac of Andrews Air Force Base to greet Pope Francis at the end of the red carpet outside his aircraft. |
| A bluster flowing his garb, Francis shook hands with each member of the family before greeting people lined up outside the plane. | A bluster flowing his garb, Francis shook hands with each member of the family before greeting people lined up outside the plane. |
| Yes, the pope has landed. | Yes, the pope has landed. |
| Updated | |
| at 9.10pm BST | |
| 9.02pm BST | |
| 21:02 | |
| Pope Francis to step on ground any minute now #PopeinUS pic.twitter.com/zYVn5MCtnL | Pope Francis to step on ground any minute now #PopeinUS pic.twitter.com/zYVn5MCtnL |
| 9.01pm BST | |
| 21:01 | |
| More from Catholic News Service’s Cindy Wooden, who was on the pope’s flight from Cuba to the US. During the flight, Francis spoke with reporters about the economy, environment and claims that he is a communist. | More from Catholic News Service’s Cindy Wooden, who was on the pope’s flight from Cuba to the US. During the flight, Francis spoke with reporters about the economy, environment and claims that he is a communist. |
| “Maybe I have given an impression of being a little bit to the left,” the pope admitted. “But if they want me to recite the Creed, I can!” | “Maybe I have given an impression of being a little bit to the left,” the pope admitted. “But if they want me to recite the Creed, I can!” |
| Full story here. | Full story here. |
| Updated | |
| at 9.11pm BST | |
| 8.57pm BST | |
| 20:57 | |
| Cindy Wooden, Rome bureau chief for Catholic News Service, was onboard the Pope’s flight from Cuba to the US. During the flight, Francis told reporters that he wants the US to end its economic embargo against Cuba. | Cindy Wooden, Rome bureau chief for Catholic News Service, was onboard the Pope’s flight from Cuba to the US. During the flight, Francis told reporters that he wants the US to end its economic embargo against Cuba. |
| #PopeFrancis on flight from Cuba: "I have never said anything more than what is in church social teaching" | #PopeFrancis on flight from Cuba: "I have never said anything more than what is in church social teaching" |
| #PopeFrancis says he hopes Us-Cuba reach agreements needed to end embargo | #PopeFrancis says he hopes Us-Cuba reach agreements needed to end embargo |
| #PopeFrancis "I follow the church" on social issues and "on this I do not think I am wrong" | #PopeFrancis "I follow the church" on social issues and "on this I do not think I am wrong" |
| Updated | |
| at 9.04pm BST | |
| 8.55pm BST | |
| 20:55 | |
| A line of cardinals, bishops and archbishops are waiting to greet Pope Francis, whose plane has touched down at Andrews Air Force Base and is taxiing on the runway. As the plane approaches the crowd of cheering people, a Vatican and US flag are being flown from the plane’s cockpit windows. | A line of cardinals, bishops and archbishops are waiting to greet Pope Francis, whose plane has touched down at Andrews Air Force Base and is taxiing on the runway. As the plane approaches the crowd of cheering people, a Vatican and US flag are being flown from the plane’s cockpit windows. |
| 8.49pm BST | |
| 20:49 | |
| Pope Francis arrives in Washington DC | Pope Francis arrives in Washington DC |
| Pope Francis’s plane has landed in Washington DC at Andrews Air Force Base. President Barack Obama is there to welcome him, as is first lady Michelle Obama, vice president Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden. | Pope Francis’s plane has landed in Washington DC at Andrews Air Force Base. President Barack Obama is there to welcome him, as is first lady Michelle Obama, vice president Joe Biden and his wife, Jill Biden. |
| 8.46pm BST | |
| 20:46 | |
| A historic – and politically charged – papal visit is about to begin in Washington. | A historic – and politically charged – papal visit is about to begin in Washington. |
| Among the ‘culture war’ topics that Pope Francis could encounter: abortion, immigration, guns, same-sex marriage and, yes, maybe even Donald Trump. | Among the ‘culture war’ topics that Pope Francis could encounter: abortion, immigration, guns, same-sex marriage and, yes, maybe even Donald Trump. |
| The Guardian’s Rome correspondent Stephanie Kirchgaessner has assembled a handy list of 10 things to watch as Francis makes his way into the US from Washington up to New York and eventually Philadelphia. | The Guardian’s Rome correspondent Stephanie Kirchgaessner has assembled a handy list of 10 things to watch as Francis makes his way into the US from Washington up to New York and eventually Philadelphia. |
| Here’s a preview of her very useful list: | Here’s a preview of her very useful list: |
| Will Pope Francis read some bishops the riot act? | Will Pope Francis read some bishops the riot act? |
| Of the 18 speeches Pope Francis is expected to deliver in the US, those before Congress and the United Nations are the two that have been the most highly anticipated – largely for historic reasons. But Vatican watchers say that Francis’s most controversial remarks could be aimed at his own flock of US bishops, who he will address at a midday prayer session on Wednesday at St Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington. | Of the 18 speeches Pope Francis is expected to deliver in the US, those before Congress and the United Nations are the two that have been the most highly anticipated – largely for historic reasons. But Vatican watchers say that Francis’s most controversial remarks could be aimed at his own flock of US bishops, who he will address at a midday prayer session on Wednesday at St Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington. |
| Francis and the Donald | Francis and the Donald |
| It is customary for popes to avoid visiting a country in the midst of an election so that they can avoid seeming to interfere. But the primary reason behind the pope’s visit – to attend the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia – means that Pope Francis is making an appearance just as things are heating up in the 2016 White House race. | It is customary for popes to avoid visiting a country in the midst of an election so that they can avoid seeming to interfere. But the primary reason behind the pope’s visit – to attend the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia – means that Pope Francis is making an appearance just as things are heating up in the 2016 White House race. |
| A Vatican official told the Guardian that Pope Francis will not wade directly into politics – and certainly not mention politicians by name. But his message in support of immigrants and the poor, and his harsh critique of capitalism and ideology over service of others, seems most clearly to contrast with the positions held by Donald Trump. | A Vatican official told the Guardian that Pope Francis will not wade directly into politics – and certainly not mention politicians by name. But his message in support of immigrants and the poor, and his harsh critique of capitalism and ideology over service of others, seems most clearly to contrast with the positions held by Donald Trump. |
| Will Francis talk about same-sex marriage? | Will Francis talk about same-sex marriage? |
| While he will likely try to maintain his distance from the issue, Pope Francis could also see his trip to the US as an opportunity to side with Parolin and forcefully speak out against gay marriage. Or, he could satisfy the wish of many progressive and gay Catholics who want Pope Francis to support the historic advancement of their civil rights, even if the church itself does not endorse such unions. | While he will likely try to maintain his distance from the issue, Pope Francis could also see his trip to the US as an opportunity to side with Parolin and forcefully speak out against gay marriage. Or, he could satisfy the wish of many progressive and gay Catholics who want Pope Francis to support the historic advancement of their civil rights, even if the church itself does not endorse such unions. |
| Related: Pope Francis in the US: 10 things to look out for during the historic visit | Related: Pope Francis in the US: 10 things to look out for during the historic visit |
| Updated | |
| at 8.47pm BST | |
| 8.38pm BST | |
| 20:38 | |
| The papal plane has been close to its destination for about twenty minutes now, but is reportedly not landing yet to stay on track with the 4pm scheduled arrival in Washington DC. | The papal plane has been close to its destination for about twenty minutes now, but is reportedly not landing yet to stay on track with the 4pm scheduled arrival in Washington DC. |
| My colleague, aviation reporter @ganjansen, tells me the papal plane's circling is typical holding pattern, most likely to time the arrival. | My colleague, aviation reporter @ganjansen, tells me the papal plane's circling is typical holding pattern, most likely to time the arrival. |
| #Pope is ahead of schedule, can't land at Andrews. POTUS still en route to welcome him, so #ShepardOne is circling. pic.twitter.com/KH8FTsnZJc | #Pope is ahead of schedule, can't land at Andrews. POTUS still en route to welcome him, so #ShepardOne is circling. pic.twitter.com/KH8FTsnZJc |
| 8.26pm BST | |
| 20:26 | |
| Students are playing music and chanting while waiting for Pope Francis’s imminent arrival. | Students are playing music and chanting while waiting for Pope Francis’s imminent arrival. |
| “We love Francis yes we do. We love Francis how about you?” | “We love Francis yes we do. We love Francis how about you?” |
| Who loves #PopeFrancis more? Via @AddieDMena pic.twitter.com/paxduwJCod | Who loves #PopeFrancis more? Via @AddieDMena pic.twitter.com/paxduwJCod |
| 8.17pm BST | |
| 20:17 | |
| FlightAware says the papal plane is due to land at 3:31p local time. Barack Obama is on his way to the air force base now. | FlightAware says the papal plane is due to land at 3:31p local time. Barack Obama is on his way to the air force base now. |
| President Obama has departed the White House en route to Joint Base Andrews to greet Pope Francis. | President Obama has departed the White House en route to Joint Base Andrews to greet Pope Francis. |
| WH South Lawn set up for tomorrow's elaborate welcome ceremony for @Pontifex. (Radio Pool photo by Mark Smith/@AP) pic.twitter.com/CvlWA6zcuF | WH South Lawn set up for tomorrow's elaborate welcome ceremony for @Pontifex. (Radio Pool photo by Mark Smith/@AP) pic.twitter.com/CvlWA6zcuF |
| 8.06pm BST | |
| 20:06 | |
| 7.56pm BST | |
| 19:56 | |
| Adam Brereton | Adam Brereton |
| The Catholic press is in overdrive for Pope Francis’s visit. Here’s the best clips and analysis from the last few days of the tour: | The Catholic press is in overdrive for Pope Francis’s visit. Here’s the best clips and analysis from the last few days of the tour: |
| Veteran Vatican reporter John L Allen Jr says Pope Francis could reshape the US religious freedom debate: | Veteran Vatican reporter John L Allen Jr says Pope Francis could reshape the US religious freedom debate: |
| Allen says some believers have noted the US bishops moving steadily to the political right, creating the impression of a “de facto alliance” with the GOP. | Allen says some believers have noted the US bishops moving steadily to the political right, creating the impression of a “de facto alliance” with the GOP. |
| “In that context, some on the American left can’t help suspecting that their rhetoric on religious freedom ... is to advance the interests of their political patrons.” | “In that context, some on the American left can’t help suspecting that their rhetoric on religious freedom ... is to advance the interests of their political patrons.” |
| “If Francis makes a pitch for religious freedom while he’s in the United States, it would be difficult to write off his appeal in quite the same way” because nobody sees Francis as a “Republican stooge”. | “If Francis makes a pitch for religious freedom while he’s in the United States, it would be difficult to write off his appeal in quite the same way” because nobody sees Francis as a “Republican stooge”. |
| Matthew Schmitz, deputy editor of First Things, injects a note of skepticism about papal celebrity: | Matthew Schmitz, deputy editor of First Things, injects a note of skepticism about papal celebrity: |
| “Francis’s appeal is based largely on his anti-institutional image—his willingness to disregard rules and call out entrenched interests—and so his popularity is especially unlikely to translate into increased attachment to the church.” | “Francis’s appeal is based largely on his anti-institutional image—his willingness to disregard rules and call out entrenched interests—and so his popularity is especially unlikely to translate into increased attachment to the church.” |
| The influential traditionalist blog Rorate Caeli expresses disappointment with Francis’s meeting with Fidel Castro, accusing him of sympathizing with communism: | The influential traditionalist blog Rorate Caeli expresses disappointment with Francis’s meeting with Fidel Castro, accusing him of sympathizing with communism: |
| “Generic appeals for service and caring for others, or his declarations about ‘service that is not self-serving’ or ‘service is never ideological’ ... are so gentle that they scarcely feel like part of any critique.” | “Generic appeals for service and caring for others, or his declarations about ‘service that is not self-serving’ or ‘service is never ideological’ ... are so gentle that they scarcely feel like part of any critique.” |
| Benedict XVI and John Paul II both spoke directly against the regime, but Francis, the blog notes, “has not said anything of similar force or clarity so far”. | Benedict XVI and John Paul II both spoke directly against the regime, but Francis, the blog notes, “has not said anything of similar force or clarity so far”. |
| “[T]he most reasonable understanding that we can have of their meeting is that this was an expression of Francis’ deep sympathy for Fidel Castro and much of what he stands for.” | “[T]he most reasonable understanding that we can have of their meeting is that this was an expression of Francis’ deep sympathy for Fidel Castro and much of what he stands for.” |
| Retired US bishop voices support for women’s ordination: | Retired US bishop voices support for women’s ordination: |
| “I personally think the Spirit is calling women to be deacons and priests, but the Spirit hasn’t yet communicated it to the teaching church,” Bishop Emeritus Francis A. Quinn of Sacramento, California, told America Magazine, a Jesuit publication. | “I personally think the Spirit is calling women to be deacons and priests, but the Spirit hasn’t yet communicated it to the teaching church,” Bishop Emeritus Francis A. Quinn of Sacramento, California, told America Magazine, a Jesuit publication. |
| He was encouraged to voice his opinion by the new pastoral approach of Pope Francis. | He was encouraged to voice his opinion by the new pastoral approach of Pope Francis. |
| At Tablet, David Smith, a former representative for the UN Secretary General in the Americas, remarks on the diplomatic timing of the visit and Francis’s mastery of soft power: | At Tablet, David Smith, a former representative for the UN Secretary General in the Americas, remarks on the diplomatic timing of the visit and Francis’s mastery of soft power: |
| “Significantly, just after the Pope speaks at the UN, that same morning world leaders go into a summit to establish how best to eradicate poverty in the next 15 years, part two of the campaign of Development Goals that the UN set at the start of the new millennium 15 years ago.”“’In a very real sense, the Pope has a window to set the stage for a summit that is a watershed in terms of the global campaign on development,’ according to one of the Secretary General’s senior advisers.” | “Significantly, just after the Pope speaks at the UN, that same morning world leaders go into a summit to establish how best to eradicate poverty in the next 15 years, part two of the campaign of Development Goals that the UN set at the start of the new millennium 15 years ago.”“’In a very real sense, the Pope has a window to set the stage for a summit that is a watershed in terms of the global campaign on development,’ according to one of the Secretary General’s senior advisers.” |
| 7.43pm BST | |
| 19:43 | |
| The pontiff’s message of eliminating economic inequality is refreshing to many Americans, but The Onion suggests that his commitment to this ideal could be swayed with a short trip through the gleaming, bright aisles of a US grocery store. | The pontiff’s message of eliminating economic inequality is refreshing to many Americans, but The Onion suggests that his commitment to this ideal could be swayed with a short trip through the gleaming, bright aisles of a US grocery store. |
| “Oh, my goodness, look at all these! Golden Oreos, Cookie Dough Oreos, Mega Stuf Oreos, Birthday Cake Oreos—perhaps the system of free enterprise is not as terrible as I once feared,” Pope Francis reportedly told The Onion. | “Oh, my goodness, look at all these! Golden Oreos, Cookie Dough Oreos, Mega Stuf Oreos, Birthday Cake Oreos—perhaps the system of free enterprise is not as terrible as I once feared,” Pope Francis reportedly told The Onion. |
| Another exclusive dispatch from the satirical news site: “House Lawmakers Brainstorming Some Good Things To Say About Poor People Before Meeting Pope Francis.” | Another exclusive dispatch from the satirical news site: “House Lawmakers Brainstorming Some Good Things To Say About Poor People Before Meeting Pope Francis.” |
| 7.34pm BST | |
| 19:34 | |
| The Pope is due to arrive in Washington DC in just over an hour, according to FlightAware. Preparations are underway at Andrews Air Force Base: | The Pope is due to arrive in Washington DC in just over an hour, according to FlightAware. Preparations are underway at Andrews Air Force Base: |
| The ceremony begins: the laying out of the red carpet on a quiet Air Force tarmac. Pope ETA: 90 minutes pic.twitter.com/PvJAlvn4ra | The ceremony begins: the laying out of the red carpet on a quiet Air Force tarmac. Pope ETA: 90 minutes pic.twitter.com/PvJAlvn4ra |
| DC area boys school, @demathacatholic, warm up on tarmac for Pope pic.twitter.com/XSsOFqIkx5 | DC area boys school, @demathacatholic, warm up on tarmac for Pope pic.twitter.com/XSsOFqIkx5 |
| 7.22pm BST | |
| 19:22 | |
| How do you feel about war? And shoes? Answer five simple questions about these and other comparable things and the Washington Post will tell you which Pope is most like you. It says I’m Pope Benedict XVI, who is known for having “a passion for church orthodoxy.” | How do you feel about war? And shoes? Answer five simple questions about these and other comparable things and the Washington Post will tell you which Pope is most like you. It says I’m Pope Benedict XVI, who is known for having “a passion for church orthodoxy.” |
| 7.09pm BST | |
| 19:09 | |
| More from Angela Bruno, who spoke with one of the 100 women marching from Pennsylvania to Washington DC in an effort to get Pope Francis to discuss immigration reform while in the US. Her story here: | More from Angela Bruno, who spoke with one of the 100 women marching from Pennsylvania to Washington DC in an effort to get Pope Francis to discuss immigration reform while in the US. Her story here: |
| It’s been a week since a group of 100 women – mostly undocumented Latinas – started their 100-mile pilgrimage from an immigration detention center in York County, Pennsylvania to Washington DC. Today marks the final day of their march. | It’s been a week since a group of 100 women – mostly undocumented Latinas – started their 100-mile pilgrimage from an immigration detention center in York County, Pennsylvania to Washington DC. Today marks the final day of their march. |
| Day 8, our final day begins #100women100miles, leaving Silver Spring MD pic.twitter.com/gdoGb2rw0X | Day 8, our final day begins #100women100miles, leaving Silver Spring MD pic.twitter.com/gdoGb2rw0X |
| The movement known as Cien Mujeres, Cien Millas, or 100 Women, 100 Miles, has scheduled their arrival in the nation’s capital to coincide with the Pope’s address to a joint session of Congress. | The movement known as Cien Mujeres, Cien Millas, or 100 Women, 100 Miles, has scheduled their arrival in the nation’s capital to coincide with the Pope’s address to a joint session of Congress. |
| Their goal: to greet the Pope and have him speak on their behalf for immigration reform, and the dignity and humane treatment of migrants and refugees. | Their goal: to greet the Pope and have him speak on their behalf for immigration reform, and the dignity and humane treatment of migrants and refugees. |
| .@womenbelong ready to greet #PopeFrancis today. #100women100miles are praying &pushing for united families. pic.twitter.com/NPT3cHB5Ra | .@womenbelong ready to greet #PopeFrancis today. #100women100miles are praying &pushing for united families. pic.twitter.com/NPT3cHB5Ra |
| Rosi Carrasco, an undocumented mother who has lived in Chicago for 20 years, spoke with the Guardian as the 100 Women started to arrive in Washington. | Rosi Carrasco, an undocumented mother who has lived in Chicago for 20 years, spoke with the Guardian as the 100 Women started to arrive in Washington. |
| “We are very happy to reach Washington,” she said. “The Pope has deeply inspired us with his message that immigrants should be treated with dignity … and we ask him to call on the government to treat us with the respect that every human deserves.” | “We are very happy to reach Washington,” she said. “The Pope has deeply inspired us with his message that immigrants should be treated with dignity … and we ask him to call on the government to treat us with the respect that every human deserves.” |
| “I’ve been so moved by the solidarity and the high spirits of the women I’ve met on this march – and the will they’ve had to move their families forward and keep their families together,” she continued. “I joined this march because I have many family and friends who have faced detentions and deportations.” | “I’ve been so moved by the solidarity and the high spirits of the women I’ve met on this march – and the will they’ve had to move their families forward and keep their families together,” she continued. “I joined this march because I have many family and friends who have faced detentions and deportations.” |
| Univision reports that, as of August 31, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) has deported 214,264 undocumented immigrants during the 2015 fiscal year. Of them, 126,283 had committed crimes. The others had not. Over the course of Obama’s presidency, the total number of deportations has reached 2,488,302. | Univision reports that, as of August 31, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) has deported 214,264 undocumented immigrants during the 2015 fiscal year. Of them, 126,283 had committed crimes. The others had not. Over the course of Obama’s presidency, the total number of deportations has reached 2,488,302. |
| Along with Rosi, many of the women marching today have been personally affected by detentions or deportations, and the pain of not being able to return to their native countries to see their families for fear of deportation. | Along with Rosi, many of the women marching today have been personally affected by detentions or deportations, and the pain of not being able to return to their native countries to see their families for fear of deportation. |
| Marcher Anna Marrero shares her story, via WeBelongTogether.org: “In 2013, my husband was detained. Four hours before my husband was going to be deported, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson intervened. Since then, I have committed myself to helping others who are facing deportation.” | Marcher Anna Marrero shares her story, via WeBelongTogether.org: “In 2013, my husband was detained. Four hours before my husband was going to be deported, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson intervened. Since then, I have committed myself to helping others who are facing deportation.” |
| Adrianna Andonaegui shares her account of her own detention: “Being incarcerated in a deportation center was a living hell,” she tells WeBelongTogether.org. “I distinctly remember the spoiled food that I was forced to eat, among many other horrific and inhumane conditions that we were forced to endure. I will be walking to DC because no person should have to endure such treatment.” | Adrianna Andonaegui shares her account of her own detention: “Being incarcerated in a deportation center was a living hell,” she tells WeBelongTogether.org. “I distinctly remember the spoiled food that I was forced to eat, among many other horrific and inhumane conditions that we were forced to endure. I will be walking to DC because no person should have to endure such treatment.” |
| Rosario Reyes, an undocumented mother from El Salvador, one day wishes to reunite with her son. “He was only 2 years old when I had to leave. I have faith that one day we will be reunited. I got involved in the fight for immigration reform when I realized that there were thousands of other families like mine that were suffering.” | Rosario Reyes, an undocumented mother from El Salvador, one day wishes to reunite with her son. “He was only 2 years old when I had to leave. I have faith that one day we will be reunited. I got involved in the fight for immigration reform when I realized that there were thousands of other families like mine that were suffering.” |
| You can learn more about the 100 Women and their stories, here. | You can learn more about the 100 Women and their stories, here. |
| The caravan has had its share of hardships during the pilgrimage – including inclement weather, blistered feet and fainting. | The caravan has had its share of hardships during the pilgrimage – including inclement weather, blistered feet and fainting. |
| “Luckily, nothing hurts,” Rosi tells us. “I think I was more tired last night. But today, after resting, I feel great physically. We’ve eaten well. And the messages of support we’ve seen along the way have motivated us to keep going.” | “Luckily, nothing hurts,” Rosi tells us. “I think I was more tired last night. But today, after resting, I feel great physically. We’ve eaten well. And the messages of support we’ve seen along the way have motivated us to keep going.” |
| The 100 Women, who are being sponsored by several immigrant and labor advocacy groups, including the National Domestic Workers Alliance and We Belong Together, are not without medics, food and accommodations – all of which has been funded by the donations of various groups. | The 100 Women, who are being sponsored by several immigrant and labor advocacy groups, including the National Domestic Workers Alliance and We Belong Together, are not without medics, food and accommodations – all of which has been funded by the donations of various groups. |
| 6.56pm BST | |
| 18:56 | |
| Dispatch from the Pope, who is in a plane somewhere over the Atlantic ocean. | Dispatch from the Pope, who is in a plane somewhere over the Atlantic ocean. |
| Thank you to the Cuban people! Thank you from my heart! | Thank you to the Cuban people! Thank you from my heart! |
| 6.51pm BST | |
| 18:51 | |
| Before boarding the papal plane in Santiago for Washington DC, the pontiff prayed at a sanctuary in the village of El Cobre to pay his respects to the country’s patron saint. | Before boarding the papal plane in Santiago for Washington DC, the pontiff prayed at a sanctuary in the village of El Cobre to pay his respects to the country’s patron saint. |
| During the service he describe the saint as a “sign of hope and centre of brotherly communion.” | During the service he describe the saint as a “sign of hope and centre of brotherly communion.” |
| 6.41pm BST | |
| 18:41 | |
| "Tengo 109 años y vengo a ver al Papa con mi fe puesta en Dios", fieles en Cuba §RV http://t.co/Q5SDpIQ8Uw pic.twitter.com/uaoH1OQzAP | "Tengo 109 años y vengo a ver al Papa con mi fe puesta en Dios", fieles en Cuba §RV http://t.co/Q5SDpIQ8Uw pic.twitter.com/uaoH1OQzAP |
| From my colleague Angela Bruno: | From my colleague Angela Bruno: |
| Radio Vaticana correspondent Alessandro Gisotti captured this special moment of 109-year-old Emilia Georgina Alfonso waiting to receive the Pope today on the streets of Santiago de Cuba. She was accompanied by her daughter Gladis González and granddaughter. | Radio Vaticana correspondent Alessandro Gisotti captured this special moment of 109-year-old Emilia Georgina Alfonso waiting to receive the Pope today on the streets of Santiago de Cuba. She was accompanied by her daughter Gladis González and granddaughter. |
| In this interview with three generations of Cuban women, the senior matriarch remarks: “I’m very, very happy to see the Pope. I have great faith in Jesus and all the saints.” Her daughter Gladis weighs in: “From the moment she wakes up, the first thing she does is pray to the Lord.” | In this interview with three generations of Cuban women, the senior matriarch remarks: “I’m very, very happy to see the Pope. I have great faith in Jesus and all the saints.” Her daughter Gladis weighs in: “From the moment she wakes up, the first thing she does is pray to the Lord.” |
| 6.33pm BST | |
| 18:33 | |
| The Guardian’s Harriet Sherwood spoke with some of the 13 nuns who are baking 100,000 communion wafers for a mass in Philadelphia on Sunday that Francis is set to attend. More from her report: | The Guardian’s Harriet Sherwood spoke with some of the 13 nuns who are baking 100,000 communion wafers for a mass in Philadelphia on Sunday that Francis is set to attend. More from her report: |
| The sisters at Langhorne – part of the worldwide Poor Clares order – were delighted to be asked to supply 100,000 wafers. “We were very happy to provide breads for the mass, but we had to increase our production rates,” said Sister Jean Therese. | The sisters at Langhorne – part of the worldwide Poor Clares order – were delighted to be asked to supply 100,000 wafers. “We were very happy to provide breads for the mass, but we had to increase our production rates,” said Sister Jean Therese. |
| With overtime, including some double shifts, the order has been completed and despatched to Philadelphia in plenty of time before the Pope’s arrival in the cityon Saturday. Francis is due to celebrate mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul on Saturday morning, and again on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the main boulevard through the city, on Sunday afternoon – his final public appearance in the US before returning to Rome. | With overtime, including some double shifts, the order has been completed and despatched to Philadelphia in plenty of time before the Pope’s arrival in the cityon Saturday. Francis is due to celebrate mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul on Saturday morning, and again on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the main boulevard through the city, on Sunday afternoon – his final public appearance in the US before returning to Rome. |
| Among the crowds thronging the parkway will be several sisters from the Langhorne monastery, in a rare excursion from their 17-acre home. “We take a vow of enclosure along with our vows of poverty, chastity and obedience,” said Sister Jean Therese. “Our life is focused on prayer. We do not go outside [the monastery].” | Among the crowds thronging the parkway will be several sisters from the Langhorne monastery, in a rare excursion from their 17-acre home. “We take a vow of enclosure along with our vows of poverty, chastity and obedience,” said Sister Jean Therese. “Our life is focused on prayer. We do not go outside [the monastery].” |
| 6.24pm BST | |
| 18:24 | |
| For those who would like a minute-by-minute update on the Pope’s location, FlightAware has you covered. According to the site, the papal plane is near the Bahamas. | For those who would like a minute-by-minute update on the Pope’s location, FlightAware has you covered. According to the site, the papal plane is near the Bahamas. |
| 6.15pm BST | |
| 18:15 | |
| Richard Luscombe | Richard Luscombe |
| Richard Luscombe in Florida: | Richard Luscombe in Florida: |
| As the leader of the closest archdiocese to Cuba, Thomas Wenski, the Archbishop of Miami, has a strong affiliation with Catholics on the island nation and the sizable number of Cuban expats in his own community. | As the leader of the closest archdiocese to Cuba, Thomas Wenski, the Archbishop of Miami, has a strong affiliation with Catholics on the island nation and the sizable number of Cuban expats in his own community. |
| He’ll touch down at Miami airport Tuesday after herding a flock of almost 200 pilgrims from the archdiocese to see Pope Francis in Havana. | He’ll touch down at Miami airport Tuesday after herding a flock of almost 200 pilgrims from the archdiocese to see Pope Francis in Havana. |
| “With such a large Cuban community in Miami, he is strongly affiliated to Cuba,” Father Richard Vigoa, Wenski’s priest secretary, told the Guardian. “He learned Spanish in seminary. He is closely involved in Cuban affairs and played a big part in the dialogue of healing and reconciliation.” | “With such a large Cuban community in Miami, he is strongly affiliated to Cuba,” Father Richard Vigoa, Wenski’s priest secretary, told the Guardian. “He learned Spanish in seminary. He is closely involved in Cuban affairs and played a big part in the dialogue of healing and reconciliation.” |
| But anybody who believes Archbishop Wenski is going to put his feet up in Florida while the papal caravan leaves Cuba today and moves on to the US needs to look again. As soon as his plane’s wheels hit the runway in Miami, Wenski will pick up a suitcase of clean clothes and race off to rejoin the pope in Washington DC. Then New York. Then Philadelphia. | But anybody who believes Archbishop Wenski is going to put his feet up in Florida while the papal caravan leaves Cuba today and moves on to the US needs to look again. As soon as his plane’s wheels hit the runway in Miami, Wenski will pick up a suitcase of clean clothes and race off to rejoin the pope in Washington DC. Then New York. Then Philadelphia. |
| One of the hardest-working and most-travelled senior officials in the US Catholic Church won’t miss a day of Francis’s historic visit. That Wenski is so involved at every destination on the pope’s itinerary – he joined other US bishops in Santiago de Cuba this morning and will celebrate a pilgrims’ mass in Philadelphia on Friday evening – reflects his diverse role within the hierarchy of the church. | One of the hardest-working and most-travelled senior officials in the US Catholic Church won’t miss a day of Francis’s historic visit. That Wenski is so involved at every destination on the pope’s itinerary – he joined other US bishops in Santiago de Cuba this morning and will celebrate a pilgrims’ mass in Philadelphia on Friday evening – reflects his diverse role within the hierarchy of the church. |
| As well as leading more than half a million Catholics in South Florida, Wenski is chair of the domestic justice and human development committee of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops and helps to shape church policy. | As well as leading more than half a million Catholics in South Florida, Wenski is chair of the domestic justice and human development committee of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops and helps to shape church policy. |
| “The church’s work in the United States is also very important to him. He’ll be in Congress on Thursday at the invitation of [Florida representative] Alcee Hastings, and in New York and Philadelphia.” | “The church’s work in the United States is also very important to him. He’ll be in Congress on Thursday at the invitation of [Florida representative] Alcee Hastings, and in New York and Philadelphia.” |
| Wenski will also be spreading the word and sharing his experiences of the pope’s visit on Thursday night during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In preparation, Vigoa says, the archbishop has been watching recordings of the show to “get a better handle on Colbert’s character”. As for the Cuban leg of Wenski’s grand adventure, Vigoa, who joined his boss for events in Havana, said it was “a beautiful experience”. | Wenski will also be spreading the word and sharing his experiences of the pope’s visit on Thursday night during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In preparation, Vigoa says, the archbishop has been watching recordings of the show to “get a better handle on Colbert’s character”. As for the Cuban leg of Wenski’s grand adventure, Vigoa, who joined his boss for events in Havana, said it was “a beautiful experience”. |
| “We were interested to see what it would be like for the people in Cuba because of the controls there. There was so much excitement, a lot of energy. Everywhere this pope goes there’s momentum, there’s fresh new air. It’s something palpable,” he said. | “We were interested to see what it would be like for the people in Cuba because of the controls there. There was so much excitement, a lot of energy. Everywhere this pope goes there’s momentum, there’s fresh new air. It’s something palpable,” he said. |
| With no let-up in pace, another group of Miami pilgrims were setting off for the north-east by bus today to join Wenski for the pope’s US events. Vigoa said it was an exhausting itinerary, “but very much worth it”. One question yet-unresolved is what the archbishop plans to do with all the air miles he will have accrued. | With no let-up in pace, another group of Miami pilgrims were setting off for the north-east by bus today to join Wenski for the pope’s US events. Vigoa said it was an exhausting itinerary, “but very much worth it”. One question yet-unresolved is what the archbishop plans to do with all the air miles he will have accrued. |
| “He’s not the type to take a vacation,” Vigoa said. “Maybe after this it will be time to talk him into one.” | “He’s not the type to take a vacation,” Vigoa said. “Maybe after this it will be time to talk him into one.” |
| 6.11pm BST | |
| 18:11 | |
| Amanda Holpuch | Amanda Holpuch |
| Hello from New York, just a few hundred miles from Washington DC, where the Pope is due to land at 4pm local time. He will be greeted at Andrews Air Force Base by president Barack Obama, who rarely meets foreign visitors at the base. | Hello from New York, just a few hundred miles from Washington DC, where the Pope is due to land at 4pm local time. He will be greeted at Andrews Air Force Base by president Barack Obama, who rarely meets foreign visitors at the base. |
| It is Francis’s first time in the US and his schedule for tonight is light as he prepares for a six-day tour of the Northeast. | It is Francis’s first time in the US and his schedule for tonight is light as he prepares for a six-day tour of the Northeast. |
| Updated | |
| at 8.10pm BST | |
| 5.59pm BST | |
| 17:59 | |
| Adam Brereton | Adam Brereton |
| Thanks for joining me on the blog this morning, for the conclusion of Pope Francis’s Cuba tour. I’m handing over to my colleague Amanda Holpuch, who will keep you company as the pontiff makes his way to the US. | Thanks for joining me on the blog this morning, for the conclusion of Pope Francis’s Cuba tour. I’m handing over to my colleague Amanda Holpuch, who will keep you company as the pontiff makes his way to the US. |
| 5.23pm BST | |
| 17:23 | |
| Five things we learned from Pope Francis’ trip to Cuba | Five things we learned from Pope Francis’ trip to Cuba |
| Jonathan Watts | Jonathan Watts |
| The ball is in the politicians’ court when it comes to Cuba-US rapprochement | The ball is in the politicians’ court when it comes to Cuba-US rapprochement |
| Pope Francis helped to broker last year’s deal between Barack Obama and Raul Castro and his trip to their two countries aims to strengthen that agreement, but he also made it very clear from the outset of his visit that it was up to “political leaders” to make this an example of reconciliation for the world. Growing expectations now that Obama will visit Havana early next year to help realise that goal. | Pope Francis helped to broker last year’s deal between Barack Obama and Raul Castro and his trip to their two countries aims to strengthen that agreement, but he also made it very clear from the outset of his visit that it was up to “political leaders” to make this an example of reconciliation for the world. Growing expectations now that Obama will visit Havana early next year to help realise that goal. |
| The pope is a Catholic | The pope is a Catholic |
| While many hoped Francis would speak out strongly on political or diplomatic issues, his homilies were theological and evangelical rather than ideological and confrontational. Yes, you could read criticism of oppressive government and overzealous monitoring of citizens into some of his words – but then you could also see his message as a criticism of any person or country that forgets power comes with responsibility. | While many hoped Francis would speak out strongly on political or diplomatic issues, his homilies were theological and evangelical rather than ideological and confrontational. Yes, you could read criticism of oppressive government and overzealous monitoring of citizens into some of his words – but then you could also see his message as a criticism of any person or country that forgets power comes with responsibility. |
| Dissidents were a low priority | Dissidents were a low priority |
| The Vatican appears to have invited at least two dissidents to meet the pope, but they were denied entry by Cuban security officers. Several dozen other activists were detained so they could not attend the pope’s mass. The pope made no direct public mention of this. If he raised the matter at all, it was behind closed doors. | The Vatican appears to have invited at least two dissidents to meet the pope, but they were denied entry by Cuban security officers. Several dozen other activists were detained so they could not attend the pope’s mass. The pope made no direct public mention of this. If he raised the matter at all, it was behind closed doors. |
| Cuba is still the least Catholic nation in Latin America | Cuba is still the least Catholic nation in Latin America |
| President Raul Castro may have said he is considering a return to the faith of his childhood, but many others clearly need a lot more persuading before they embrace Catholicism. Although the pope was warmly received, crowd sizes were relatively modest. Many of those who turned up also did so not due to faith, but out of curiosity or because they were encouraged to do so by the authorities. | President Raul Castro may have said he is considering a return to the faith of his childhood, but many others clearly need a lot more persuading before they embrace Catholicism. Although the pope was warmly received, crowd sizes were relatively modest. Many of those who turned up also did so not due to faith, but out of curiosity or because they were encouraged to do so by the authorities. |
| The Cuban internet can be high speed (when it needs to be) | The Cuban internet can be high speed (when it needs to be) |
| As any visitor to Havana can testify, communications on the island are unreliable and the internet is usually slow or prohibitively expensive. At the press centre of the pope’s visit, however, the broadband was as fast as anywhere this journalist has seen in Latin America. | As any visitor to Havana can testify, communications on the island are unreliable and the internet is usually slow or prohibitively expensive. At the press centre of the pope’s visit, however, the broadband was as fast as anywhere this journalist has seen in Latin America. |
| – Jonathan Watts in Havana | – Jonathan Watts in Havana |
| 5.14pm BST | |
| 17:14 | |
| And waiting for the pontiff in the US ... | And waiting for the pontiff in the US ... |
| Journalists check in for credentials to cover the arrival of #PopeFrancis at @AndrewsAirForce. #PopeinUS pic.twitter.com/Aib3mIHsm6 | Journalists check in for credentials to cover the arrival of #PopeFrancis at @AndrewsAirForce. #PopeinUS pic.twitter.com/Aib3mIHsm6 |
| 5.13pm BST | |
| 17:13 | |
| Stephanie Kirchgaessner | Stephanie Kirchgaessner |
| Pope Francis and the Vatican press corps has a short flight ahead of them. Stephanie Kirchgaessner with what happens on the papal plane: | Pope Francis and the Vatican press corps has a short flight ahead of them. Stephanie Kirchgaessner with what happens on the papal plane: |
| Will he or won’t he? As a journalist, one of the benefits of traveling on the papal plane is the chance to ask Pope Francis a question. It used to be the case that these rare opportunities to speak with the pope occurred before a trip. But, Vaticanistas have told me, that practice was changed during Pope Benedict’s tenure. | Will he or won’t he? As a journalist, one of the benefits of traveling on the papal plane is the chance to ask Pope Francis a question. It used to be the case that these rare opportunities to speak with the pope occurred before a trip. But, Vaticanistas have told me, that practice was changed during Pope Benedict’s tenure. |
| The German pontiff ignited a controversy in 2009 on the first leg of a six-day trip to Africa when he said in response to a question that condoms were not the answer to the continent’s struggle against the HIV virus. The remark dominated the coverage of the trip. Since then, the Vatican only allows reporters to ask questions once a trip is over. | The German pontiff ignited a controversy in 2009 on the first leg of a six-day trip to Africa when he said in response to a question that condoms were not the answer to the continent’s struggle against the HIV virus. The remark dominated the coverage of the trip. Since then, the Vatican only allows reporters to ask questions once a trip is over. |
| The Vatican told reporters last week that the pope might take questions (which they will say should be limited to queries about his trip to Cuba) on the three hour flight from the island to Washington,= DC. Then again, the 78-year-old may be too tired to face a barrage of questions. The rest of the world will only hear about it once the plane has landed at Andrews Air Force base, when reporters on board will doubtlessly begin tweeting out the latest news. | The Vatican told reporters last week that the pope might take questions (which they will say should be limited to queries about his trip to Cuba) on the three hour flight from the island to Washington,= DC. Then again, the 78-year-old may be too tired to face a barrage of questions. The rest of the world will only hear about it once the plane has landed at Andrews Air Force base, when reporters on board will doubtlessly begin tweeting out the latest news. |
| The Vatican press corps tends to be very respectful of the pontiff, so don’t expect any questions that are too confrontational. But the pope could certainly be asked to discuss his meeting with Fidel Castro, his hopes for further reconciliation with the US, and why he did not formally meet with any dissidents. | The Vatican press corps tends to be very respectful of the pontiff, so don’t expect any questions that are too confrontational. But the pope could certainly be asked to discuss his meeting with Fidel Castro, his hopes for further reconciliation with the US, and why he did not formally meet with any dissidents. |
| 5.07pm BST | |
| 17:07 | |
| Raúl Castro is having a very animated discussion on the tarmac with Cuban Cardinal Jaime Ortega. I reckon they have a fair bit to discuss after this papal visit. | Raúl Castro is having a very animated discussion on the tarmac with Cuban Cardinal Jaime Ortega. I reckon they have a fair bit to discuss after this papal visit. |
| 5.03pm BST | |
| 17:03 | |
| And with a wave and a curt bow, Pope Francis boards the plane for Washington DC. | And with a wave and a curt bow, Pope Francis boards the plane for Washington DC. |
| 4.58pm BST | |
| 16:58 | |
| Pope Francis has arrived at the airport. He’s being farewelled by Raúl Castro and a huge military band and guard of honor. Plus goose-stepping! | Pope Francis has arrived at the airport. He’s being farewelled by Raúl Castro and a huge military band and guard of honor. Plus goose-stepping! |
| 4.48pm BST | |
| 16:48 | |
| Pope Francis blesses the city and people of Santiago. For the Twitterly-inclined, Fr Antonio Spadaro SJ is, like Francis, a Jesuit – and one to follow online during the tour. | Pope Francis blesses the city and people of Santiago. For the Twitterly-inclined, Fr Antonio Spadaro SJ is, like Francis, a Jesuit – and one to follow online during the tour. |
| La benedizione di #PapaFrancesco #elpapaencuba pic.twitter.com/tcSxShOqTl | La benedizione di #PapaFrancesco #elpapaencuba pic.twitter.com/tcSxShOqTl |
| Updated | |
| at 4.49pm BST | |
| 4.45pm BST | |
| 16:45 | |
| We’ve got our own Vaticanistas in the thread speculating on the reasons for the date of Pope Francis’s arrival in the US. Make of this what you will ... | We’ve got our own Vaticanistas in the thread speculating on the reasons for the date of Pope Francis’s arrival in the US. Make of this what you will ... |
| Pope Francis arrives in the US on the feast day of the black saint, Maurice, which this year marks the 1,500 anniversary of the foundation of his "cultus" in St. Moritz, Switzerland. | Pope Francis arrives in the US on the feast day of the black saint, Maurice, which this year marks the 1,500 anniversary of the foundation of his "cultus" in St. Moritz, Switzerland. |
| As St. George still is to England, St. Maurice had, for more than a millennium, been the soldier / saint / patron / protector of the Holy Roman Empire. The very epitome of the knight in shining armor since the time of Charlemagne, both the lore and the religious symbolism of the historical figure who was martyred along with his entire legion could prove an incomparable source of help and inspiration to young back males here desperate for this kind of positive imagery. | As St. George still is to England, St. Maurice had, for more than a millennium, been the soldier / saint / patron / protector of the Holy Roman Empire. The very epitome of the knight in shining armor since the time of Charlemagne, both the lore and the religious symbolism of the historical figure who was martyred along with his entire legion could prove an incomparable source of help and inspiration to young back males here desperate for this kind of positive imagery. |
| Even though he and his relic from the Crucifixion were kicked to the curb, everyone who keeps tabs of film industry scuttlebutt, knows that it was the Spear of St. Maurice, the subject of Trevor Ravenscroft's 1973 bestseller, SPEAR OF DESTINY, which had been the basis for the 1981 blockbuster, RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, and SPEAR OF DESTINY, the prototype of all 3D computer games played today. | Even though he and his relic from the Crucifixion were kicked to the curb, everyone who keeps tabs of film industry scuttlebutt, knows that it was the Spear of St. Maurice, the subject of Trevor Ravenscroft's 1973 bestseller, SPEAR OF DESTINY, which had been the basis for the 1981 blockbuster, RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, and SPEAR OF DESTINY, the prototype of all 3D computer games played today. |
| However there is a far earlier and therefore, all too obvious a reason why this saint is still virtually unknown today. With the involvement of most European nations in the slave trade, which of them would have tolerated, much less encouraged, the devotion to a black African who had once been nothing less than the personification of the military might and the religious ambitions of once the greatest world power in Western history. | However there is a far earlier and therefore, all too obvious a reason why this saint is still virtually unknown today. With the involvement of most European nations in the slave trade, which of them would have tolerated, much less encouraged, the devotion to a black African who had once been nothing less than the personification of the military might and the religious ambitions of once the greatest world power in Western history. |
| As with Pope Benedict's visit to Germany in 2011 on this date, Pope Francis' meeting with President Obama at Andrews Air Force Base this afternoon cannot be mistaken as simply coincidental. | As with Pope Benedict's visit to Germany in 2011 on this date, Pope Francis' meeting with President Obama at Andrews Air Force Base this afternoon cannot be mistaken as simply coincidental. |
| Sancte Mauriti, ora pro nobis! | Sancte Mauriti, ora pro nobis! |
| 4.37pm BST | |
| 16:37 | |
| Adios, papa! | Adios, papa! |
| People from Santiago de Cuba say goodbye to #PopeFrancis. #ElPapaEnCuba #Cuba pic.twitter.com/ETUUnKorYz | People from Santiago de Cuba say goodbye to #PopeFrancis. #ElPapaEnCuba #Cuba pic.twitter.com/ETUUnKorYz |
| 4.36pm BST | |
| 16:36 | |
| Stephanie Kirchgaessner | Stephanie Kirchgaessner |
| Stephanie Kirchgaessner checks in from Rome: | Stephanie Kirchgaessner checks in from Rome: |
| Lots of focus on the family today. That’s a theme that will be constant throughout the week and particularly as the pope travels to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families 2015. All this talk makes me think Pope Francis’s has an obvious theme song for the trip. | Lots of focus on the family today. That’s a theme that will be constant throughout the week and particularly as the pope travels to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families 2015. All this talk makes me think Pope Francis’s has an obvious theme song for the trip. |
| Maybe he’ll blast it on the streets of New York from his Jeep Popemobile? | Maybe he’ll blast it on the streets of New York from his Jeep Popemobile? |
| As it turns out, Sister Sledge will be performing for the pontiff (so will Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, Gloria Estefan, Andrea Boccelli, and Mark Wahlberg). | As it turns out, Sister Sledge will be performing for the pontiff (so will Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, Gloria Estefan, Andrea Boccelli, and Mark Wahlberg). |
| Sister Sledge’s PR team tells the Guardian that they will be performing a special rendition of We are Family. “Get up everybody and sing!” | Sister Sledge’s PR team tells the Guardian that they will be performing a special rendition of We are Family. “Get up everybody and sing!” |
| Updated | |
| at 4.54pm BST | |
| 4.33pm BST | |
| 16:33 | |
| Pope Francis's final day in Cuba | Pope Francis's final day in Cuba |
| If you’re just tuning in to our Guardian PopeBlog, Francis has kept busy on his final day in Cuba. | If you’re just tuning in to our Guardian PopeBlog, Francis has kept busy on his final day in Cuba. |
| Updated | |
| at 4.56pm BST | |
| 4.22pm BST | |
| 16:22 | |
| Bernie Sanders might be more excited for this trip than many Catholics... | Bernie Sanders might be more excited for this trip than many Catholics... |
| Bernie Sanders welcomes Pope at strike for low paid federal workers calls on Congress to heed call for social justice pic.twitter.com/nmBl430iu2 | Bernie Sanders welcomes Pope at strike for low paid federal workers calls on Congress to heed call for social justice pic.twitter.com/nmBl430iu2 |
| 4.17pm BST | |
| 16:17 | |
| Pope Francis takes the balcony to bless Santiago de Cuba. He encourages Cubans to remember and care for their grandparents. Smiling, he tells Cubans that he feels at home. | Pope Francis takes the balcony to bless Santiago de Cuba. He encourages Cubans to remember and care for their grandparents. Smiling, he tells Cubans that he feels at home. |
| And that concludes the pope’s public appearances in Cuba. Now, after a state farewell at Santiago airport, he’ll depart for DC. | And that concludes the pope’s public appearances in Cuba. Now, after a state farewell at Santiago airport, he’ll depart for DC. |
| And here’s the balcony he’ll speak from later in the week ... | And here’s the balcony he’ll speak from later in the week ... |
| Pope Francis is expected to make a brief appearance outside the @USCapitol on Thursday. Here’s the view. #PopeInDC https://t.co/1Uun1z0xzY | Pope Francis is expected to make a brief appearance outside the @USCapitol on Thursday. Here’s the view. #PopeInDC https://t.co/1Uun1z0xzY |
| 4.01pm BST | |
| 16:01 | |
| Pope Francis: family breakdown makes us easy to manipulate and rule | Pope Francis: family breakdown makes us easy to manipulate and rule |
| In his final address to the Cuban people, Pope Francis told families that a strong home life “saves us from two present-day phenomena: fragmentation (division) and uniformity”. | In his final address to the Cuban people, Pope Francis told families that a strong home life “saves us from two present-day phenomena: fragmentation (division) and uniformity”. |
| “In both cases, people turn into isolated individuals, easy to manipulate and to rule,” the pontiff said, in a counterpoint to communist nations’ belief in the totality of the state and the party. | “In both cases, people turn into isolated individuals, easy to manipulate and to rule,” the pontiff said, in a counterpoint to communist nations’ belief in the totality of the state and the party. |
| Societies which are divided, broken, separated or rigidly uniform are a result of the breakup of family bonds, the loss of those relationships which make us who we are, which teach us to be persons. | Societies which are divided, broken, separated or rigidly uniform are a result of the breakup of family bonds, the loss of those relationships which make us who we are, which teach us to be persons. |
| The pope prefigured his approach to future meetings on the family – one in Philidelphia, as part of his US tour, and the October Synod of Bishops – that are likely to be hard going for the reforming pope, who faces opposition from conservative elements in the Vatican’s curia. | The pope prefigured his approach to future meetings on the family – one in Philidelphia, as part of his US tour, and the October Synod of Bishops – that are likely to be hard going for the reforming pope, who faces opposition from conservative elements in the Vatican’s curia. |
| “Families are not a problem, they are first and foremost an opportunity,” Francis said. | “Families are not a problem, they are first and foremost an opportunity,” Francis said. |
| No doubt about it: the perfect family does not exist; there are no perfect husbands and wives, perfect parents, perfect children, but this does not prevent families from being the answer for the future. | No doubt about it: the perfect family does not exist; there are no perfect husbands and wives, perfect parents, perfect children, but this does not prevent families from being the answer for the future. |
| These comments are likely to be interpreted in light of the pope’s recent decision to relax the strictures around annulments – the Catholic process to render a marriage non-existent, similar to a divorce. | These comments are likely to be interpreted in light of the pope’s recent decision to relax the strictures around annulments – the Catholic process to render a marriage non-existent, similar to a divorce. |
| The change, made unilaterally by the pope with no consultation, led Francis’s style to be described as a kind of “Fuhrerprinzip” by an internally-circulated Vatican document. | The change, made unilaterally by the pope with no consultation, led Francis’s style to be described as a kind of “Fuhrerprinzip” by an internally-circulated Vatican document. |
| Francis also blessed Santiago’s pregnant mothers and their unborn children, calling them a “sign of hope”. | Francis also blessed Santiago’s pregnant mothers and their unborn children, calling them a “sign of hope”. |
| Updated | |
| at 4.57pm BST | |
| 3.55pm BST | |
| 15:55 | |
| Pope Francis's Santiago de Cuba homily – full text | Pope Francis's Santiago de Cuba homily – full text |
| We are here as a family! And whenever we come together as a family, we feel at home. Thank you, Cuban families. Thank you, Cubans, for making me feel part of a family, for making me feel at home, in these days. This meeting is like “the cherry on the cake”. To conclude my visit with this family gathering is a reason to thank God for the “warmth” spread by people who know how to welcome and accept someone, to make him feel at home. Thank you! | We are here as a family! And whenever we come together as a family, we feel at home. Thank you, Cuban families. Thank you, Cubans, for making me feel part of a family, for making me feel at home, in these days. This meeting is like “the cherry on the cake”. To conclude my visit with this family gathering is a reason to thank God for the “warmth” spread by people who know how to welcome and accept someone, to make him feel at home. Thank you! |
| I am grateful to Archbishop Dionisio García of Santiago for his greetings in the name of all present, and to the married couple who were not afraid to share with all of us their hopes and struggles in trying to make their home a “domestic church”. | I am grateful to Archbishop Dionisio García of Santiago for his greetings in the name of all present, and to the married couple who were not afraid to share with all of us their hopes and struggles in trying to make their home a “domestic church”. |
| John’s Gospel tells us that Jesus worked his first miracle at the wedding feast of Cana, at a family party. There he was, with Mary, his Mother, and some of his disciples, taking part in a family celebration. | John’s Gospel tells us that Jesus worked his first miracle at the wedding feast of Cana, at a family party. There he was, with Mary, his Mother, and some of his disciples, taking part in a family celebration. |
| Weddings are special times in many people’s lives. For the “older folks”, parents and grandparents, it is an opportunity to reap the fruits of what they have sown. Our hearts rejoice when we see children grow up and make a home of their own. For a moment, we see that everything we worked for was worth the effort. To raise children, to support and encourage them, to help them want to make a life for themselves and form a family: this is a great challenge for all parents. Weddings, too, show us the joy of young spouses. The future is open before them, and everything “smacks” of new possibilities, of hope. | Weddings are special times in many people’s lives. For the “older folks”, parents and grandparents, it is an opportunity to reap the fruits of what they have sown. Our hearts rejoice when we see children grow up and make a home of their own. For a moment, we see that everything we worked for was worth the effort. To raise children, to support and encourage them, to help them want to make a life for themselves and form a family: this is a great challenge for all parents. Weddings, too, show us the joy of young spouses. The future is open before them, and everything “smacks” of new possibilities, of hope. |
| Weddings always bring together the past which we inherit and the future in which we put our hope. They are an opportunity to be grateful for everything which has brought us to this day, with the same love which we have received. | Weddings always bring together the past which we inherit and the future in which we put our hope. They are an opportunity to be grateful for everything which has brought us to this day, with the same love which we have received. |
| Jesus begins his public life at a wedding. He enters into that history of sowing and reaping, of dreams and quests, of efforts and commitments, of hard work which tills the land so that it can yield fruit. | Jesus begins his public life at a wedding. He enters into that history of sowing and reaping, of dreams and quests, of efforts and commitments, of hard work which tills the land so that it can yield fruit. |
| Jesus began his life within a family, within a home. And he continues to enter into, and become a part of, our homes. It is interesting to see how Jesus also shows up at meals, at dinners. Eating with different people, visiting different homes, was a special way for him to make known God’s plan. He goes to the home of his friends, Martha and Mary, but he is not choosy; it makes no difference to him if they are publicans or sinners, like Zacchaeus. | Jesus began his life within a family, within a home. And he continues to enter into, and become a part of, our homes. It is interesting to see how Jesus also shows up at meals, at dinners. Eating with different people, visiting different homes, was a special way for him to make known God’s plan. He goes to the home of his friends, Martha and Mary, but he is not choosy; it makes no difference to him if they are publicans or sinners, like Zacchaeus. |
| He didn’t just act this way himself; when he sent his disciples out to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God he told them: Stay in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide (Lk 10:7). Weddings, visits to people’s homes, dinners: those moments in people’s lives become “special” because Jesus chose to be part of them. | He didn’t just act this way himself; when he sent his disciples out to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God he told them: Stay in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide (Lk 10:7). Weddings, visits to people’s homes, dinners: those moments in people’s lives become “special” because Jesus chose to be part of them. |
| I remember in my former diocese how many families told me that almost the only time they came together was at dinner, in the evening after work, when the children had finished their homework. These were special times in the life of the family. They talked about what happened that day and what each of them had done; they tidied the house, put things away and organized their chores for the next few days. | I remember in my former diocese how many families told me that almost the only time they came together was at dinner, in the evening after work, when the children had finished their homework. These were special times in the life of the family. They talked about what happened that day and what each of them had done; they tidied the house, put things away and organized their chores for the next few days. |
| These were also times when someone might come home tired, or when arguments or bickering might break out. Jesus chooses all those times to show us the love of God. He chooses those moments to enter into our hearts and to help us to discover the Spirit of life at work in our daily affairs. It is in the home that we learn fraternity, solidarity, and not to be overbearing. It is in the home that we learn to receive, to appreciate life as a blessing and to realize that we need one another to move forward. It is in the home that we experience forgiveness, that we are continually asked to forgive and to grow. In the home there is no room for “putting on masks”: we are who we are, and in one way or another we are called to do our best for others. | These were also times when someone might come home tired, or when arguments or bickering might break out. Jesus chooses all those times to show us the love of God. He chooses those moments to enter into our hearts and to help us to discover the Spirit of life at work in our daily affairs. It is in the home that we learn fraternity, solidarity, and not to be overbearing. It is in the home that we learn to receive, to appreciate life as a blessing and to realize that we need one another to move forward. It is in the home that we experience forgiveness, that we are continually asked to forgive and to grow. In the home there is no room for “putting on masks”: we are who we are, and in one way or another we are called to do our best for others. |
| That is why the Christian community calls families “domestic churches”. It is in the warmth of the home that faith fills every corner, lights up every space, builds community. At those moments, people learn to discover God’s love present and at work. | That is why the Christian community calls families “domestic churches”. It is in the warmth of the home that faith fills every corner, lights up every space, builds community. At those moments, people learn to discover God’s love present and at work. |
| In many cultures today, these spaces are shrinking, these experiences of family are disappearing, and everything is slowly breaking up, growing apart. We have fewer moments in common, to stay together, to stay at home as a family. As a result, we don’t know how to be patient, we don’t know how to ask permission or forgiveness, or even to say “thank you”, because our homes are growing empty. | In many cultures today, these spaces are shrinking, these experiences of family are disappearing, and everything is slowly breaking up, growing apart. We have fewer moments in common, to stay together, to stay at home as a family. As a result, we don’t know how to be patient, we don’t know how to ask permission or forgiveness, or even to say “thank you”, because our homes are growing empty. |
| Empty of relationships, empty of contacts, empty of encounters. Not long ago, someone who works with me told me that his wife and children had gone off on vacation, while he remained home alone. The first day, the house is completely quiet, “at peace”, and nothing was out of place. On the third day, when I asked him how things were going, he told me: I wish they would all come back soon. He felt he couldn’t live without his wife and children. | Empty of relationships, empty of contacts, empty of encounters. Not long ago, someone who works with me told me that his wife and children had gone off on vacation, while he remained home alone. The first day, the house is completely quiet, “at peace”, and nothing was out of place. On the third day, when I asked him how things were going, he told me: I wish they would all come back soon. He felt he couldn’t live without his wife and children. |
| Without family, without the warmth of home, life grows empty, there is a weakening of the networks which sustain us in adversity, nurture us in daily living and motivate us to build a better future. The family saves us from two present-day phenomena: fragmentation (division) and uniformity. In both cases, people turn into isolated individuals, easy to manipulate and to rule. Societies which are divided, broken, separated or rigidly uniform are a result of the breakup of family bonds, the loss of those relationships which make us who we are, which teach us to be persons. | Without family, without the warmth of home, life grows empty, there is a weakening of the networks which sustain us in adversity, nurture us in daily living and motivate us to build a better future. The family saves us from two present-day phenomena: fragmentation (division) and uniformity. In both cases, people turn into isolated individuals, easy to manipulate and to rule. Societies which are divided, broken, separated or rigidly uniform are a result of the breakup of family bonds, the loss of those relationships which make us who we are, which teach us to be persons. |
| The family is a school of humanity which teaches us to open our hearts to others’ needs, to be attentive to their lives. Amid all the difficulties troubling our families today, please, never forget one thing: families are not a problem, they are first and foremost an opportunity. An opportunity which we have to care for, protect and support. | The family is a school of humanity which teaches us to open our hearts to others’ needs, to be attentive to their lives. Amid all the difficulties troubling our families today, please, never forget one thing: families are not a problem, they are first and foremost an opportunity. An opportunity which we have to care for, protect and support. |
| We talk a lot about the future, about the kind of world we want to leave to our children, the kind of society we want for them. I believe that one possible answer lies in looking at yourselves: let us leave behind a world with families. No doubt about it: the perfect family does not exist; there are no perfect husbands and wives, perfect parents, perfect children, but this does not prevent families from being the answer for the future. God inspires us to love, and love always engages with the persons it loves. So let us care for our families, true schools for the future. Let us care for our families, true spaces of freedom. | We talk a lot about the future, about the kind of world we want to leave to our children, the kind of society we want for them. I believe that one possible answer lies in looking at yourselves: let us leave behind a world with families. No doubt about it: the perfect family does not exist; there are no perfect husbands and wives, perfect parents, perfect children, but this does not prevent families from being the answer for the future. God inspires us to love, and love always engages with the persons it loves. So let us care for our families, true schools for the future. Let us care for our families, true spaces of freedom. |
| Let us care for families, true centers of humanity. I do not want to end without mentioning the Eucharist. All of you know very well that Jesus chose a meal to the setting for his memorial. He chose a specific moment of family life as the “place” of his presence among us. A moment which we have all experienced, a moment we all understand: a meal. | Let us care for families, true centers of humanity. I do not want to end without mentioning the Eucharist. All of you know very well that Jesus chose a meal to the setting for his memorial. He chose a specific moment of family life as the “place” of his presence among us. A moment which we have all experienced, a moment we all understand: a meal. |
| The Eucharist is the meal of Jesus’ family, which the world over gathers to hear his word and to be fed by his body. Jesus is the Bread of Life for our families. He wants to be ever present, nourishing us by his love, sustaining us in faith, helping us to walk in hope, so that in every situation we can experience the true Bread of Heaven. | The Eucharist is the meal of Jesus’ family, which the world over gathers to hear his word and to be fed by his body. Jesus is the Bread of Life for our families. He wants to be ever present, nourishing us by his love, sustaining us in faith, helping us to walk in hope, so that in every situation we can experience the true Bread of Heaven. |
| In a few days I will join families from across the globe in the World Meeting of Families and, in less than a month, in the Synod of Bishops devoted to the family. I ask you to pray in a particular way for these two events, so that together we can find ways to help one another and to care for the family, so that we can continue to discover Emmanuel, the God who dwells in the midst of his people, and makes his home in our families. | In a few days I will join families from across the globe in the World Meeting of Families and, in less than a month, in the Synod of Bishops devoted to the family. I ask you to pray in a particular way for these two events, so that together we can find ways to help one another and to care for the family, so that we can continue to discover Emmanuel, the God who dwells in the midst of his people, and makes his home in our families. |
| 3.52pm BST | |
| 15:52 | |
| Stephanie Kirchgaessner | Stephanie Kirchgaessner |
| An interesting tidbit from Stephanie Kirchgaessner in Rome, via The Italian daily Corriere della Sera: | An interesting tidbit from Stephanie Kirchgaessner in Rome, via The Italian daily Corriere della Sera: |
| The Italian paper reported that when Pope Francis was handed some of the speeches that had been prepared for him by some US bishops ahead of his trip to the US, he was both puzzled and disappointed with the result. The texts did not reflect his views or his style, Corriere reported, and were too unstructured and general. | The Italian paper reported that when Pope Francis was handed some of the speeches that had been prepared for him by some US bishops ahead of his trip to the US, he was both puzzled and disappointed with the result. The texts did not reflect his views or his style, Corriere reported, and were too unstructured and general. |
| Ultimately, Francis decided to leave the task to someone closer to home: his trusted secretary of state at the Vatican who re-wrote the speeches entirely. It may not be the last time the pope fails to see eye-to-eye with his flock of American bishops. | Ultimately, Francis decided to leave the task to someone closer to home: his trusted secretary of state at the Vatican who re-wrote the speeches entirely. It may not be the last time the pope fails to see eye-to-eye with his flock of American bishops. |
| 3.43pm BST | |
| 15:43 | |
| As the pope talks to families in Cuba, let us return to the US quickly – to San Francisco. The “ultra conservative” Salvatore Cordileone, reminds progressives and reformers that he and the pope are on the same page – the pontiff is just more charistmatic. Anita Chabria reports: | As the pope talks to families in Cuba, let us return to the US quickly – to San Francisco. The “ultra conservative” Salvatore Cordileone, reminds progressives and reformers that he and the pope are on the same page – the pontiff is just more charistmatic. Anita Chabria reports: |
| Related: 'Ultra conservative' California archbishop sees similarities with pope | Related: 'Ultra conservative' California archbishop sees similarities with pope |
| Updated | |
| at 4.58pm BST | |
| 3.33pm BST | |
| 15:33 | |
| Pope Felix V? | Pope Felix V? |
| "Kitkit, of Brightwood, is super stoked about Pope Francis’ visit.” http://t.co/1i7lMDqg5d #PopeInDC #PopeinUS pic.twitter.com/aYstvZ5cQN | "Kitkit, of Brightwood, is super stoked about Pope Francis’ visit.” http://t.co/1i7lMDqg5d #PopeInDC #PopeinUS pic.twitter.com/aYstvZ5cQN |
| 3.31pm BST | |
| 15:31 | |
| What were we saying earlier about progressives in the US who are excited for the pope’s visit? | What were we saying earlier about progressives in the US who are excited for the pope’s visit? |
| Pope Francis has forcefully reminded us that greed, and the worship of money, is not what human existence should be about. | Pope Francis has forcefully reminded us that greed, and the worship of money, is not what human existence should be about. |
| 3.28pm BST | |
| 15:28 | |
| A family arises to thank the pope, including for his “defence of life from birth to natural death”. The little girl burbles and is gently shushed. Francis looks on benevolently before sharing kisses and an awkward handshake with Dad, that turns into a fraternal hug. It’s the father’s birthday today too, he’s 36! | A family arises to thank the pope, including for his “defence of life from birth to natural death”. The little girl burbles and is gently shushed. Francis looks on benevolently before sharing kisses and an awkward handshake with Dad, that turns into a fraternal hug. It’s the father’s birthday today too, he’s 36! |
| 3.24pm BST | |
| 15:24 | |
| Archbishop of Santiago, Dionisio Guillermo García Ibáñez, emphasizes the music and culture of his city before asking the pope’s blessing. He makes a point of distinguishing it from Havana: | Archbishop of Santiago, Dionisio Guillermo García Ibáñez, emphasizes the music and culture of his city before asking the pope’s blessing. He makes a point of distinguishing it from Havana: |
| “Santiago has its own identity that is distinct, that is marked by its love of the virgin, its Cuban hospitality and its joy.” | “Santiago has its own identity that is distinct, that is marked by its love of the virgin, its Cuban hospitality and its joy.” |
| 3.22pm BST | |
| 15:22 | |
| Novelist and journalist Alfredo José Estrada writes for Comment is Free that “for my parent’s generation, Obama’s reconciliation [with Cuba] has been a bitter pill to swallow, and the pope’s role a betrayal, since most are devout Catholics.” | Novelist and journalist Alfredo José Estrada writes for Comment is Free that “for my parent’s generation, Obama’s reconciliation [with Cuba] has been a bitter pill to swallow, and the pope’s role a betrayal, since most are devout Catholics.” |
| Related: Pope Francis's failure to chide Cuba makes his visit there an empty symbol | Alfredo José Estrada | Related: Pope Francis's failure to chide Cuba makes his visit there an empty symbol | Alfredo José Estrada |
| 3.19pm BST | |
| 15:19 | |
| Pope Francis is in Santiago de Cuba’s cathedral to meet families and bless the city. People are waving Cuban flags (and fans). I’ve got to say, he is starting to look a bit tired. I can’t blame him, this has been a marathon tour, especially for a 78-year-old. | Pope Francis is in Santiago de Cuba’s cathedral to meet families and bless the city. People are waving Cuban flags (and fans). I’ve got to say, he is starting to look a bit tired. I can’t blame him, this has been a marathon tour, especially for a 78-year-old. |
| 3.11pm BST | |
| 15:11 | |
| Jonathan Watts | Jonathan Watts |
| Cuba’s Catholicism, like in other Latin American nations, is a blend of Roman, Indigenous and African spiritual traditions – a syncretic mix called Santería. Jon Watts has written on it here: | Cuba’s Catholicism, like in other Latin American nations, is a blend of Roman, Indigenous and African spiritual traditions – a syncretic mix called Santería. Jon Watts has written on it here: |
| Santería, which has its origins in the Yoruba mythology of what is now Nigeria, emerged as a result of slavery. Brought to the New World to work on sugar plantations, the slaves had Christianity imposed upon them. To maintain their beliefs, they – at first secretly – syncretised their spirits or orishas with Roman Catholic saints. | Santería, which has its origins in the Yoruba mythology of what is now Nigeria, emerged as a result of slavery. Brought to the New World to work on sugar plantations, the slaves had Christianity imposed upon them. To maintain their beliefs, they – at first secretly – syncretised their spirits or orishas with Roman Catholic saints. |
| Related: Cuba's Santería faithful experience Pope Francis's visit through different prism | Related: Cuba's Santería faithful experience Pope Francis's visit through different prism |
| 3.04pm BST | |
| 15:04 | |
| Stephanie Kirchgaessner | Stephanie Kirchgaessner |
| Pope Francis brings America into focus – Stephanie Kirchgaessner with a dispatch from Rome: | Pope Francis brings America into focus – Stephanie Kirchgaessner with a dispatch from Rome: |
| When Pope Francis arrives in the US, he will encounter not only adoring crowds and smiling faces but conservative bishops who are less than thrilled with the direction in which the pontiff is taking the church. | When Pope Francis arrives in the US, he will encounter not only adoring crowds and smiling faces but conservative bishops who are less than thrilled with the direction in which the pontiff is taking the church. |
| While the Argentinian comes off as a warm and generous soul, most Vatican experts are quick to point out that he is also a shrewd operator. That’s why this recent observation by Robert Mickens, writing in his column Roman Observer for the National Catholic Reporter, was so fascinating. | While the Argentinian comes off as a warm and generous soul, most Vatican experts are quick to point out that he is also a shrewd operator. That’s why this recent observation by Robert Mickens, writing in his column Roman Observer for the National Catholic Reporter, was so fascinating. |
| Mickens recounts the story of the pope’s recent and unexpected visit to the optician to have his lenses (but not his frames) adjusted. Francis did not visit any old optician. Instead he went to one in one of the swankiest areas of Rome, on Via del Babuino. | Mickens recounts the story of the pope’s recent and unexpected visit to the optician to have his lenses (but not his frames) adjusted. Francis did not visit any old optician. Instead he went to one in one of the swankiest areas of Rome, on Via del Babuino. |
| As Romans and tourists alike realized what was going on, crowds began to gather around the opticians’ window, their smartphones recording every minute of the spectacular site. Indeed, it could as easily have been Beyonce or Lady Gaga inside the store, give the hoopla. | As Romans and tourists alike realized what was going on, crowds began to gather around the opticians’ window, their smartphones recording every minute of the spectacular site. Indeed, it could as easily have been Beyonce or Lady Gaga inside the store, give the hoopla. |
| “Too many miss the deeper, perhaps more subtle significance of what the pope is up to,” Mickens writes. He then goes on to explain: | “Too many miss the deeper, perhaps more subtle significance of what the pope is up to,” Mickens writes. He then goes on to explain: |
| Francis carefully arranged this seemingly normal outing to make a very important statement ... He was sending an unmistakably clear message to those who have still not embraced the reforming spirit ... The framework for reform has not changed, but the pope has sharpened his eyesight and will focus greater clarity to bring forth his vision for a church that takes risks, is poor for the poor and lavishly shows mercy. | Francis carefully arranged this seemingly normal outing to make a very important statement ... He was sending an unmistakably clear message to those who have still not embraced the reforming spirit ... The framework for reform has not changed, but the pope has sharpened his eyesight and will focus greater clarity to bring forth his vision for a church that takes risks, is poor for the poor and lavishly shows mercy. |
| Mickens then concludes that the pope was making another important point to those bishops who are still not on board: do not forget who the crowds are rooting for. | Mickens then concludes that the pope was making another important point to those bishops who are still not on board: do not forget who the crowds are rooting for. |
| Related: Holy order: Pope Francis takes trip to opticians for new glasses | Related: Holy order: Pope Francis takes trip to opticians for new glasses |
| Updated | |
| at 3.05pm BST | |
| 2.48pm BST | |
| 14:48 | |
| Papal biographer says Pope Francis is building Cuba's post-communist future | Papal biographer says Pope Francis is building Cuba's post-communist future |
| Papal biographer Austen Ivereigh says the visit of Pope Francis is so significant because Francis is acting is a kind of “broker” or “guarantor” for the Cuban people’s desire for independence. | Papal biographer Austen Ivereigh says the visit of Pope Francis is so significant because Francis is acting is a kind of “broker” or “guarantor” for the Cuban people’s desire for independence. |
| “He’s a Latin American nationalist,” Ivereigh told Net TV on Tuesday. “The talks here have been incredibly rich, incredibly patriotic language he’s been using here ... he’s building a post-communist future without once referring to communism”. | “He’s a Latin American nationalist,” Ivereigh told Net TV on Tuesday. “The talks here have been incredibly rich, incredibly patriotic language he’s been using here ... he’s building a post-communist future without once referring to communism”. |
| “The backdrop to this visit is the revolution, of course it is, he doesn’t need to say so,” Ivereigh added. | “The backdrop to this visit is the revolution, of course it is, he doesn’t need to say so,” Ivereigh added. |
| “It’s quite striking that on this visit there is no visit to a prison, or an old person’s home, or a poor village ... what he calls places of pain. | “It’s quite striking that on this visit there is no visit to a prison, or an old person’s home, or a poor village ... what he calls places of pain. |
| “Why aren’t there any on this itinerary?” Ivereigh said, adding that the whole island seemed like such a place. | “Why aren’t there any on this itinerary?” Ivereigh said, adding that the whole island seemed like such a place. |
| Bishops were interviewed on Cuban television for the first time since the revolution, Ivereigh said, which showed the significance of the pilgrimage. | Bishops were interviewed on Cuban television for the first time since the revolution, Ivereigh said, which showed the significance of the pilgrimage. |
| Updated | |
| at 2.52pm BST | |
| 2.38pm BST | |
| 14:38 | |
| 2.34pm BST | |
| 14:34 | |
| Papal biographer Austen Ivereigh tells Net TV that this trip is a sign that the pope is a “man in a hurry”, a reminder that the pope has only anticipated a five-year pontificate. | Papal biographer Austen Ivereigh tells Net TV that this trip is a sign that the pope is a “man in a hurry”, a reminder that the pope has only anticipated a five-year pontificate. |
| 2.31pm BST | |
| 14:31 | |
| Adam Brereton | Adam Brereton |
| Why has Pope Francis chosen to end his Cuban tour in El Cobre and Santiago de Cuba, rather than in the capital, Havana? Reading the pope’s homilies over the last few days, let’s talk about marginality. | Why has Pope Francis chosen to end his Cuban tour in El Cobre and Santiago de Cuba, rather than in the capital, Havana? Reading the pope’s homilies over the last few days, let’s talk about marginality. |
| Francis has repeatedly spoken about the people at the margins: the disabled, children, the poor and so on. | Francis has repeatedly spoken about the people at the margins: the disabled, children, the poor and so on. |
| But marginality also means geography: that’s El Cobre and Santiago de Cuba, for sure. Geographically, it couldn’t be further from the capital: | But marginality also means geography: that’s El Cobre and Santiago de Cuba, for sure. Geographically, it couldn’t be further from the capital: |
| It’s also marginal in other ways: El Cobre is a former slave and mining town, Santiago de Cuba has a significant link with Jamaican culture. | It’s also marginal in other ways: El Cobre is a former slave and mining town, Santiago de Cuba has a significant link with Jamaican culture. |
| Santiago is also politically significant for reasons that will be familiar to those living under the Castro regime: it was one of the sites of early mass executions under the revolutionary government | Santiago is also politically significant for reasons that will be familiar to those living under the Castro regime: it was one of the sites of early mass executions under the revolutionary government |
| It’s also the burial site of Jose Martí, a national hero and the father of Cuban independence, who died in 1895. | It’s also the burial site of Jose Martí, a national hero and the father of Cuban independence, who died in 1895. |
| There’s a sense that communist “culture” is more marginal here, especially in El Cobre, or perhaps more liminal, and that the pope can reach through it into the country’s Catholic past. That’s the message he’s been delivering again and again on this tour: there is dignity in reclaiming the lost traditions of the Cuban people. | There’s a sense that communist “culture” is more marginal here, especially in El Cobre, or perhaps more liminal, and that the pope can reach through it into the country’s Catholic past. That’s the message he’s been delivering again and again on this tour: there is dignity in reclaiming the lost traditions of the Cuban people. |
| Updated | |
| at 2.33pm BST | |
| 2.10pm BST | |
| 14:10 | |
| Congress has issued etiquette rules for the pope’s US visit which include no fist-bumps and no selfies, according to EWTN commentator Raymond Arroyo. The question is whether Francis sticks to the rules himself, I guess. | Congress has issued etiquette rules for the pope’s US visit which include no fist-bumps and no selfies, according to EWTN commentator Raymond Arroyo. The question is whether Francis sticks to the rules himself, I guess. |
| 1.52pm BST | |
| 13:52 | |
| My colleague Richard Nelsson has taken a journey through 50 years of papal visits to the US, as covered by the Guardian. | My colleague Richard Nelsson has taken a journey through 50 years of papal visits to the US, as covered by the Guardian. |
| Related: Fifty years of papal visits to the United States: from the Guardian archive | Related: Fifty years of papal visits to the United States: from the Guardian archive |
| Updated | |
| at 2.35pm BST | |
| 1.45pm BST | |
| 13:45 | |
| Reporters on the trail have noted on Twitter that, at previous masses, many didn’t know the responses to various parts of the liturgy (when the priest says “the lord be with you”, the congregation responds “and with your spirit” and so on.) | Reporters on the trail have noted on Twitter that, at previous masses, many didn’t know the responses to various parts of the liturgy (when the priest says “the lord be with you”, the congregation responds “and with your spirit” and so on.) |
| That doesn’t seem to be the case at El Cobre. The congregation is responding and praying enthusiastically with the pontiff. Raúl Castro is there too; maybe it’s all coming back to him and he’ll make good on his promise to return to the Catholic church? | That doesn’t seem to be the case at El Cobre. The congregation is responding and praying enthusiastically with the pontiff. Raúl Castro is there too; maybe it’s all coming back to him and he’ll make good on his promise to return to the Catholic church? |
| Pope calls for revolution of love and tenderness on last day in Cuba pic.twitter.com/G9SrzuRVZF | Pope calls for revolution of love and tenderness on last day in Cuba pic.twitter.com/G9SrzuRVZF |
| Updated | |
| at 1.49pm BST | |
| 1.35pm BST | |
| 13:35 | |
| Can Pope Francis help US politics “rise from the partisan swamp of Washington to higher moral ground”? Many US progressives hope so. | Can Pope Francis help US politics “rise from the partisan swamp of Washington to higher moral ground”? Many US progressives hope so. |
| My colleague Ed Pilkington reports that pro-immigrant groups, anti-inequality campaigners and environmentalists have big expectations for the pope’s US tour. Read the full report below: | My colleague Ed Pilkington reports that pro-immigrant groups, anti-inequality campaigners and environmentalists have big expectations for the pope’s US tour. Read the full report below: |
| Related: US progressives hope Pope Francis can bring moral force to key issues | Related: US progressives hope Pope Francis can bring moral force to key issues |
| 1.30pm BST | |
| 13:30 | |
| #PopeInCuba:"We want to be a Church which goes forth to build bridges, to break down walls…” (Castro’s Cuba quakes) pic.twitter.com/nMFXKL3npK | #PopeInCuba:"We want to be a Church which goes forth to build bridges, to break down walls…” (Castro’s Cuba quakes) pic.twitter.com/nMFXKL3npK |
| 1.25pm BST | |
| 13:25 | |
| Pope Francis calls suffering Cubans to remember tradition kept alive by women | Pope Francis calls suffering Cubans to remember tradition kept alive by women |
| Adam Brereton | Adam Brereton |
| Pope Francis continued his theme of expressly apolitical addresses in his homily in El Cobre, but he’s doing something quite subtle: calling Cuba back to the time before Communism. | Pope Francis continued his theme of expressly apolitical addresses in his homily in El Cobre, but he’s doing something quite subtle: calling Cuba back to the time before Communism. |
| Francis quoted from a letter, written to Benedict XV (Giacomo della Chiesa) by the Cuban people prior his 1916 decision to make the Virgin of Cobre the country’s patroness, which said “neither disgrace nor poverty were ever able to crush the faith”. | Francis quoted from a letter, written to Benedict XV (Giacomo della Chiesa) by the Cuban people prior his 1916 decision to make the Virgin of Cobre the country’s patroness, which said “neither disgrace nor poverty were ever able to crush the faith”. |
| That faith, Francis said, “was kept alive thanks to all those grandmothers who fostered, in the daily life of their homes, the living presence of God ... grandmothers, mothers, and so many others who with tenderness and love were signs of visitation, valor and faith for their grandchildren, in their families”. | That faith, Francis said, “was kept alive thanks to all those grandmothers who fostered, in the daily life of their homes, the living presence of God ... grandmothers, mothers, and so many others who with tenderness and love were signs of visitation, valor and faith for their grandchildren, in their families”. |
| Updated | |
| at 1.29pm BST | |
| 1.18pm BST | |
| 13:18 | |
| Pope Francis: the Cuban people were formed by suffering and privation – full text | Pope Francis: the Cuban people were formed by suffering and privation – full text |
| Pope Francis’s homily at El Cobre: | Pope Francis’s homily at El Cobre: |
| The Gospel we have just heard tells us about something the Lord does every time he visits us: he calls us out of our house. These are images which we are asked to contemplate over and over again. God’s presence in our lives never leaves us tranquil: it always pushes to do something. When God comes, he always calls us out of our house. We are visited so that we can visit others; we are encountered so as to encounter others; we receive love in order to give love. | The Gospel we have just heard tells us about something the Lord does every time he visits us: he calls us out of our house. These are images which we are asked to contemplate over and over again. God’s presence in our lives never leaves us tranquil: it always pushes to do something. When God comes, he always calls us out of our house. We are visited so that we can visit others; we are encountered so as to encounter others; we receive love in order to give love. |
| In the Gospel we see Mary, the first disciple. A young woman of perhaps between 15 and 17 years of age who, in a small village of Palestine, was visited by the Lord, who told her that she was to be the mother of the Savior. Mary was far from “thinking it was all about her”, or thinking that everyone had to come and wait upon her; she left her house and went out to serve. | In the Gospel we see Mary, the first disciple. A young woman of perhaps between 15 and 17 years of age who, in a small village of Palestine, was visited by the Lord, who told her that she was to be the mother of the Savior. Mary was far from “thinking it was all about her”, or thinking that everyone had to come and wait upon her; she left her house and went out to serve. |
| First she goes to help her cousin Elizabeth. The joy which blossoms when we know that God is with us, with our people, gets our heart beating, gets our legs moving and “draws us out of ourselves”. It leads us to take the joy we have received and to share it in service, in those “pregnant” situations which our neighbors or families may be experiencing. The Gospel tells us that Mary went in haste, slowly but surely, with a steady pace, neither too fast nor so slow as never to get there. Neither anxious nor distracted, Mary goes with haste to accompany her cousin who conceived in her old age. | First she goes to help her cousin Elizabeth. The joy which blossoms when we know that God is with us, with our people, gets our heart beating, gets our legs moving and “draws us out of ourselves”. It leads us to take the joy we have received and to share it in service, in those “pregnant” situations which our neighbors or families may be experiencing. The Gospel tells us that Mary went in haste, slowly but surely, with a steady pace, neither too fast nor so slow as never to get there. Neither anxious nor distracted, Mary goes with haste to accompany her cousin who conceived in her old age. |
| Henceforth this was always to be her way. She has always been the woman who visits men and women, children, the elderly and the young. She has visited and accompanied many of our peoples in the drama of their birth; she has watched over the struggles of those who fought to defend the rights of their children. And now, she continues to bring us the Word of Life, her Son, our Lord. | Henceforth this was always to be her way. She has always been the woman who visits men and women, children, the elderly and the young. She has visited and accompanied many of our peoples in the drama of their birth; she has watched over the struggles of those who fought to defend the rights of their children. And now, she continues to bring us the Word of Life, her Son, our Lord. |
| These lands have also been visited by her maternal presence. The Cuban homeland was born and grew, warmed by devotion to Our Lady of Charity. As the bishops of this country have written: “In a special and unique way she has molded the Cuban soul, inspiring the highest ideals of love of God, the family and the nation in the heart of the Cuban people”. | These lands have also been visited by her maternal presence. The Cuban homeland was born and grew, warmed by devotion to Our Lady of Charity. As the bishops of this country have written: “In a special and unique way she has molded the Cuban soul, inspiring the highest ideals of love of God, the family and the nation in the heart of the Cuban people”. |
| This was what your fellow citizens also stated a hundred years ago, when they asked Pope Benedict XV to declare Our Lady of Charity the Patroness of Cuba. They wrote that “neither disgrace nor poverty were ever able to crush the faith and the love which our Catholic people profess for the Virgin of Charity, for whom, in all their trials, when death was imminent or desperation was at the door, there arose, like a light scattering the darkness of every peril, like a comforting dew ... the vision of that Blessed Virgin, utterly Cuban and loved as such by our cherished mothers, blessed as such by our wives.” | This was what your fellow citizens also stated a hundred years ago, when they asked Pope Benedict XV to declare Our Lady of Charity the Patroness of Cuba. They wrote that “neither disgrace nor poverty were ever able to crush the faith and the love which our Catholic people profess for the Virgin of Charity, for whom, in all their trials, when death was imminent or desperation was at the door, there arose, like a light scattering the darkness of every peril, like a comforting dew ... the vision of that Blessed Virgin, utterly Cuban and loved as such by our cherished mothers, blessed as such by our wives.” |
| In this shrine, which keeps alive the memory of God’s holy and faithful pilgrim people in Cuba, Mary is venerated as the Mother of Charity. From here she protects our roots, our identity, so that we may never stray to paths of despair. The soul of the Cuban people, as we have just heard, was forged amid suffering and privation which could not suppress the faith, that faith which was kept alive thanks to all those grandmothers who fostered, in the daily life of their homes, the living presence of God, the presence of the Father who liberates, strengthens, heals, grants courage and serves as a sure refuge and the sign of a new resurrection. Grandmothers, mothers, and so many others who with tenderness and love were signs of visitation, valor and faith for their grandchildren, in their families. They kept open a tiny space, small as a mustard seed, through which the Holy Spirit continued to accompany the heartbeat of this people. | In this shrine, which keeps alive the memory of God’s holy and faithful pilgrim people in Cuba, Mary is venerated as the Mother of Charity. From here she protects our roots, our identity, so that we may never stray to paths of despair. The soul of the Cuban people, as we have just heard, was forged amid suffering and privation which could not suppress the faith, that faith which was kept alive thanks to all those grandmothers who fostered, in the daily life of their homes, the living presence of God, the presence of the Father who liberates, strengthens, heals, grants courage and serves as a sure refuge and the sign of a new resurrection. Grandmothers, mothers, and so many others who with tenderness and love were signs of visitation, valor and faith for their grandchildren, in their families. They kept open a tiny space, small as a mustard seed, through which the Holy Spirit continued to accompany the heartbeat of this people. |
| “Whenever we look to Mary, we come to believe once again in the revolutionary nature of love and tenderness” (Evangelii Gaudium, 288). | “Whenever we look to Mary, we come to believe once again in the revolutionary nature of love and tenderness” (Evangelii Gaudium, 288). |
| Generation after generation, day after day, we are asked to renew our faith. We are asked to live the revolution of tenderness as Mary, our Mother of Charity, did. We are invited to “leave home” and to open our eyes and hearts to others. Our revolution comes about through tenderness, through the joy which always becomes closeness and compassion, and leads us to get involved in, and to serve, the life of others. Our faith makes us leave our homes and go forth to encounter others, to share their joys, their hopes and their frustrations. Our faith, “calls us out of our house”, to visit the sick, the prisoner and to those who mourn. It makes us able to laugh with those who laugh, and rejoice with our neighbors who rejoice. Like Mary, we want to be a Church which serves, which leaves home and goes forth, which goes forth from its chapels, its sacristies, in order to accompany life, to sustain hope, to be a sign of unity. | Generation after generation, day after day, we are asked to renew our faith. We are asked to live the revolution of tenderness as Mary, our Mother of Charity, did. We are invited to “leave home” and to open our eyes and hearts to others. Our revolution comes about through tenderness, through the joy which always becomes closeness and compassion, and leads us to get involved in, and to serve, the life of others. Our faith makes us leave our homes and go forth to encounter others, to share their joys, their hopes and their frustrations. Our faith, “calls us out of our house”, to visit the sick, the prisoner and to those who mourn. It makes us able to laugh with those who laugh, and rejoice with our neighbors who rejoice. Like Mary, we want to be a Church which serves, which leaves home and goes forth, which goes forth from its chapels, its sacristies, in order to accompany life, to sustain hope, to be a sign of unity. |
| Like Mary, Mother of Charity, we want to be a Church which goes forth to build bridges, to break down walls, to sow seeds of reconciliation. Like Mary, we want to be a Church which can accompany all those “pregnant” situations of our people, committed to life, to culture, to society, not washing our hands but rather walking with our brothers and sisters. | Like Mary, Mother of Charity, we want to be a Church which goes forth to build bridges, to break down walls, to sow seeds of reconciliation. Like Mary, we want to be a Church which can accompany all those “pregnant” situations of our people, committed to life, to culture, to society, not washing our hands but rather walking with our brothers and sisters. |
| This is our most valuable treasure (cobre), this is our greatest wealth and the best legacy we can give: to learn like Mary to leave home and set out on the path of visitation. And to learn to pray with | This is our most valuable treasure (cobre), this is our greatest wealth and the best legacy we can give: to learn like Mary to leave home and set out on the path of visitation. And to learn to pray with |
| Mary, for her prayer is one of remembrance and gratitude; it is the canticle of the People of God on their pilgrimage through history. It is the living reminder that God passes through our midst; the perennial memory that God has looked upon the lowliness of his people, he has come the aid of his servant, even as promised to our forebears and their children for ever. | Mary, for her prayer is one of remembrance and gratitude; it is the canticle of the People of God on their pilgrimage through history. It is the living reminder that God passes through our midst; the perennial memory that God has looked upon the lowliness of his people, he has come the aid of his servant, even as promised to our forebears and their children for ever. |
| 1.13pm BST | |
| 13:13 | |
| Catholic spirituality is replete with instances of the Virgin Mary appearing and speaking to people – especially to children. Many readers will be familiar with Lourdes (France), Medjugorje (Croatia) and Fatima (Portugal). | Catholic spirituality is replete with instances of the Virgin Mary appearing and speaking to people – especially to children. Many readers will be familiar with Lourdes (France), Medjugorje (Croatia) and Fatima (Portugal). |
| Our Lady of Charity of Cobre is another popular story. In the early 1600s, some Indigenous and slave children found a statuette of the Virgin Mary floating in the ocean. Because the town’s church was dedicated to Saint James they put the statue in a hut. It did a disappearing act, so the story goes, and was found on the hill above the town. | Our Lady of Charity of Cobre is another popular story. In the early 1600s, some Indigenous and slave children found a statuette of the Virgin Mary floating in the ocean. Because the town’s church was dedicated to Saint James they put the statue in a hut. It did a disappearing act, so the story goes, and was found on the hill above the town. |
| After the town’s slaves were freed the statuette of the Virgin displaced the colonial symbols above the altar. She was declared the patroness of Cuba in 1916. | After the town’s slaves were freed the statuette of the Virgin displaced the colonial symbols above the altar. She was declared the patroness of Cuba in 1916. |
| 1.03pm BST | |
| 13:03 | |
| Francis is increasingly known as a people’s pope and this mass is about as popular as it gets: the people are singing along with the psalms to much simpler tones than we’ve seen at other masses on this tour. It’s a local service, really. | Francis is increasingly known as a people’s pope and this mass is about as popular as it gets: the people are singing along with the psalms to much simpler tones than we’ve seen at other masses on this tour. It’s a local service, really. |
| There are people outside watching on a big screen too. | There are people outside watching on a big screen too. |
| 12.55pm BST | |
| 12:55 | |
| And here he is ... The pope is arriving now in the Minor Basilica of the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity of Cobre (take a breath ... ) to say mass. | And here he is ... The pope is arriving now in the Minor Basilica of the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity of Cobre (take a breath ... ) to say mass. |
| Our Lady of Charity of Cobre is a popular Marian devotion, meaning a kind of special reverence paid to the Virgin Mary, who holds pride of place in the Catholic church as the mother of God. | Our Lady of Charity of Cobre is a popular Marian devotion, meaning a kind of special reverence paid to the Virgin Mary, who holds pride of place in the Catholic church as the mother of God. |
| Apluaden entrada del #PapaFrancisco en Basílica Menor del Santuario Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre. pic.twitter.com/TX1JYcJeDW | Apluaden entrada del #PapaFrancisco en Basílica Menor del Santuario Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre. pic.twitter.com/TX1JYcJeDW |
| Updated | |
| at 1.01pm BST | |
| 12.49pm BST | |
| 12:49 | |
| Good morning and welcome to the Guardian’s continuing live coverage of the Pope’s visit to Cuba and the US. It’s the final day of Pope Francis’s Cuban tour today, and he will be flying to the US this afternoon local time. | Good morning and welcome to the Guardian’s continuing live coverage of the Pope’s visit to Cuba and the US. It’s the final day of Pope Francis’s Cuban tour today, and he will be flying to the US this afternoon local time. |
| Francis has got a short schedule today in Cuba: mass this morning in the village of El Cobre, then a meeting with families and blessing at the Cathedral in Santiago de Cuba. | Francis has got a short schedule today in Cuba: mass this morning in the village of El Cobre, then a meeting with families and blessing at the Cathedral in Santiago de Cuba. |
| After a farewell ceremony at 12.15pm local time (4.15pm GMT), the pope will get in the Paplane (I assume that’s what it’s called) and fly to the US, where he’ll be welcomed at 4pm (8pm GMT) in Washington DC. | After a farewell ceremony at 12.15pm local time (4.15pm GMT), the pope will get in the Paplane (I assume that’s what it’s called) and fly to the US, where he’ll be welcomed at 4pm (8pm GMT) in Washington DC. |
| You can watch a livestream of the pope’s activities today here: | You can watch a livestream of the pope’s activities today here: |
| And you can follow it all throughout the day on this live blog. | And you can follow it all throughout the day on this live blog. |