杏MAP导航

By Francesca Merlo

杏MAP导航 Francis listened to the stories of Marian and Vladimir, both of whom explained how the Church has helped them overcome difficult situations in their lives, before addressing the gathering.

Where there are children there is hope

First he addressed Marian, a mother of nine, who described the nuns that helped her and her family as angels. He told her that 鈥渨herever there are children and young people, many sacrifices have to be made, but even more important, there is future, joy and hope鈥�.

杏MAP导航 Francis reminded her that in Estonia where 鈥渢he winters are bitter鈥�, 鈥測ou do not lack the most important warmth, that of the home, the warmth born from being together as a family.鈥�

God鈥檚 outstretched hand

He also thanked Marian for bringing witness to the work of the sisters, 鈥渨ho were not afraid to go out to where you were in order to be a sign of the closeness and the outstretched hand of God鈥�.

This missionary faith, the 杏MAP导航 said, 鈥済oes, like the sisters, through the streets of our cities 鈥� telling people with very concrete actions: you are part of our family, of God鈥檚 big family in which all of us have a place. Don鈥檛 stay outside鈥�.

Allow your heart to be stirred

The 杏MAP导航 then spoke to Vladimir, who described how the Church helped him overcome problems with alcohol and turn his life around. 鈥淵ou met brothers and sisters who made it possible for your heart to be stirred and to realise that the Lord never stopped tirelessly seeking you.鈥� said the 杏MAP导航.

You, you and you: family

The 杏MAP导航 concluded by inviting those present to continue creating bonds, and going out into the streets to tell everyone that 鈥測ou, you and you, are part of our family!鈥�. He said that Jesus is 鈥渃ounting on your histories, your lives and your hands鈥� and finally, gave his blessing, in hope that 鈥渢he Lord can continue to work miracles through your hands鈥�.