Angelus (8 September 2019 - Antananarivo, Madagascar)

On the morning of 8 September 2019, the Pope Francis celebrated Mass on the diocesan grounds of Soamandrakizay in Antananarivo, Madagascar. At the end of Mass, the Holy Father recited the Angelus and presented the following address:

Dear brothers and sisters, at the conclusion of this celebration, I would like to address a cordial greeting to all of you!

From the heart, I thank Archbishop Razanakolona for his kind words, and with him my other brother bishops present, the priests, consecrated persons, married couples and their families, catechists and all the faithful.

I take this occasion to express my deep gratitude to the President of the Republic and the civil authorities of the country for their generous welcome, as well as all those who have contributed in various ways to the successful outcome of my Visit.  May the Lord reward you and bless all your people, through the intercession of Blessed Raphaël Louis Rafiringa, whose relics are enshrined near this altar, and Blessed Victoire Rasoamanarivo.

And now, let us turn in prayer to the Blessed Virgin on this day that commemorates her Nativity, the dawn of salvation for humanity.  May Mary Immaculate, whom you love and venerate as your Mother and Patroness, ever accompany the journey of Madagascar in peace and hope.

[Original text: Italian]

[Provided by the Holy See Press Office]