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Pope Francis journeys to Washington to begin historic US visit – live updates Pope Francis journeys to Washington to begin historic US visit – live updates
(35 minutes later)
4.48pm BST16:48
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.
La benedizione di #PapaFrancesco #elpapaencuba pic.twitter.com/tcSxShOqTl
Updated at 4.49pm BST
4.45pm BST16:45
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 ...
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.
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.
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!
4.37pm BST16:37
Adios, papa!
People from Santiago de Cuba say goodbye to #PopeFrancis. #ElPapaEnCuba #Cuba pic.twitter.com/ETUUnKorYz
4.36pm BST16:36
Stephanie Kirchgaessner
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.
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).
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 BST16:33
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.
4.22pm BST16:22
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
4.17pm BST16:174.17pm BST16:17
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/1Uun1z0xzYPope Francis is expected to make a brief appearance outside the @USCapitol on Thursday. Here’s the view. #PopeInDC https://t.co/1Uun1z0xzY
4.01pm BST16:014.01pm BST16:01
Pope Francis: family breakdown makes us easy to manipulate and rulePope 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 4.04pm BSTUpdated at 4.04pm BST
3.55pm BST15:553.55pm BST15:55
Pope Francis's Santiago de Cuba homily – full textPope 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 BST15:523.52pm BST15:52
Stephanie KirchgaessnerStephanie 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 BST15:433.43pm BST15:43
Anita ChabriaAnita Chabria
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 popeRelated: 'Ultra conservative' California archbishop sees similarities with pope
Updated at 3.43pm BSTUpdated at 3.43pm BST
3.33pm BST15:333.33pm BST15:33
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 BST15:313.31pm BST15:31
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 BST15:283.28pm BST15:28
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 BST15:243.24pm BST15:24
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 BST15:223.22pm BST15:22
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 EstradaRelated: Pope Francis's failure to chide Cuba makes his visit there an empty symbol | Alfredo José Estrada
3.19pm BST15:193.19pm BST15:19
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 BST15:113.11pm BST15:11
Jonathan WattsJonathan 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 prismRelated: Cuba's Santería faithful experience Pope Francis's visit through different prism
3.04pm BST15:043.04pm BST15:04
Stephanie KirchgaessnerStephanie 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 glassesRelated: Holy order: Pope Francis takes trip to opticians for new glasses
Updated at 3.05pm BSTUpdated at 3.05pm BST
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Papal biographer says Pope Francis is building Cuba's post-communist futurePapal 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 BSTUpdated at 2.52pm BST
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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.
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Adam BreretonAdam 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 governmentSantiago 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 BSTUpdated at 2.33pm BST
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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.
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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 archiveRelated: Fifty years of papal visits to the United States: from the Guardian archive
Updated at 2.35pm BSTUpdated at 2.35pm BST
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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/G9SrzuRVZFPope calls for revolution of love and tenderness on last day in Cuba pic.twitter.com/G9SrzuRVZF
Updated at 1.49pm BSTUpdated at 1.49pm BST
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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 issuesRelated: US progressives hope Pope Francis can bring moral force to key issues
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#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
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Pope Francis calls suffering Cubans to remember tradition kept alive by womenPope Francis calls suffering Cubans to remember tradition kept alive by women
Adam BreretonAdam 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 BSTUpdated at 1.29pm BST
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Pope Francis: the Cuban people were formed by suffering and privation – full textPope 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 withThis 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.
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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.
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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.
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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/TX1JYcJeDWApluaden entrada del #PapaFrancisco en Basílica Menor del Santuario Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre. pic.twitter.com/TX1JYcJeDW
Updated at 1.01pm BSTUpdated at 1.01pm BST
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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.