VATICAN (SE): Following the recitation of the Angelus in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, January 30, Pope Francis pointed out that February 10 marks the Lunar New Year which will be celebrated throughout the Asia, as well as in various parts of the world.
He extended his cordial greetings and expressed the wish that in the New Year all may enjoy “peace, health and a peaceful and secure life.”
Pope Francis also noted that it was also World Leprosy Day and expressed his closeness “to those who suffer from this disease” and prayed that they “will not lack spiritual support and health care.”
may enjoy ‘peace, health and a peaceful and secure life
Pope Francis
The day aims to increase the public awareness of leprosy or Hansen’s Disease, with this year’s theme being United for Dignity.
The pope said it is necessary “to work together for the full integration of these people, overcoming any discrimination associated with a disease that unfortunately still affects so many, especially in the most disadvantaged social contexts.”
The pope said, “How beautiful it is when families find opportunities to gather together and experience moments of love and joy! Many families, unfortunately, will not be able to get together this year because of the pandemic. I hope that we will soon be able to overcome this test.”
Pope Francis went on to say that, thanks to the “good will of individuals and the solidarity of peoples, the entire human family will be able to achieve with renewed dynamism goals of material and spiritual prosperity.”
On the eve of the feast of
St. John Bosco [January 31] the pope also greeted the Salesian men and women “who do so much good in the Church.”
