GUATEMALA, Jul 29, 02 (CWNews.com) - Pope John Paul II arrived in Guatemala on Monday afternoon for the second of three stops on his ten-day trip to the Americas.
The Holy Father arrived at the Guatemala City airport at 3 in the afternoon, after a 3,000-mile trip from Toronto, where he had presided on Sunday at the closing Mass for World Youth Day. He was greeted by Guatemala's President Alfonso Portillo, and leaders from Belize, the Dominican Republic, as well as many bishops of the Central American region.
During a brief ceremony at the airport, the Pope said that the canonization of Pedro de Betancur, which will take place on Tuesday, should be «a moment of grace and renewal» for the people of Guatemala. He also gave his blessing to all the people of the Central American country, mentioning in particular those who are suffering from physical, emotional, or spiritual poverty.
After the ceremony the Pope traveled by motorcade to the residence of the papal nuncio, greeted by crowds who tossed floral bouquets as the papal vehicle passed.
CWNews DAILY NEWS BRIEF © Copyright 2002 Domus Enterprises
29. juli 2002