Lombardi Editorial: A joyful visit

Every smile that lights up a face is a ray of light, an invitation to smile ourselves. It is an efficacious dialogue, without need for words. For those who follow the Pope on his travels, the smiles, the applause, the expressions of joy along the way are among the most striking characteristics of his journeys.
Sometimes the crowds go on for miles, but they are never an indistinct mass; they are always countless individual people, individual souls and unique stories that speak through their eyes and gestures.
And the Pope is touched by them, so much so that many times after his recent visit to Benin, he spoke about the spontaneous and warm vivacity of the welcome he was accorded. In the enthusiasm of the people, the Pope saw the bursting desire for life – and for a good life – of a poor population that faces dramatic problems but believes and hopes in the future.
The warmth and enthusiasm of Latin America is no less than that of Africa. And in expressing their love and joy, the people of Mexico desire to be second to no one. It’s amazing that even a fleeting sight of the passing of an elderly Pope can arouse so much sincere and intense joy. It’s a sign that people feel and understand that he brings a precious message of peace for their lives.
The Pope often speaks of Christian joy, a deep joy that originates from faith in the risen Christ, a joy that no one can ever take from a believer. His message is profound. We hope that through hearing the Gospel, the joy that welcomes him to Mexico can mature into the lasting joy of a hope that will never disappoint.
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