Pope Francis’ audio message for the Visually Impaired

Vatican City, 11 June 2013: I greet you with affection. I know you are gathered in Tirrenia, Italy for a period of stay, and that some of you would want to come to Rome. Thanks to modern technology, I can come to you! Thank you for your appreciation, for your affection and especially for your prayers, said Pope Francis on Tuesday in an audio message sent to all the members of the Italian Union of the Blind and visually impaired.

During the summer holidays a group of about 75 blind people, mostly elderly, organized by the Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired at its Centre for Rehabilitation Studies and holidays "The Towers", managed the Hotel Olympic Beach in Tirrenia.

Pope Francis said that the Gospel tells us that Jesus has paid special attention to the blind. He has healed many, along with many other sick people. But the healing of the visually impaired person has a special symbolic meaning: it is the gift of faith. And it is a sign that concerns us all, because we all need the light of faith to walk in the road of life. For this reason Baptism, which is the first sacrament of the faith, was once also called "illumination."

I ask the Lord to renew in each of you the gift of faith, said the Pope, adding because in your mind there is always the light of God, the light of love, which gives meaning to our life, lights, gives us hope and makes us good and available for our brothers.

I also wish all the best for your association, the Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired. Always spread the culture of encounter, of solidarity, hospitality towards people with disabilities, not only asking the right social securities, but encouraging their active participation in society, added the pope.

Pope Francis concluded his audio message with entrust them to the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He also requested them to pray for him and for his service to the Church. He then imparted his blessings on them and their loved ones.Source: VR Sedoc