Saturday, December 2, 2017

In Bangladesh: a meeting with young people

At 3:00pm local time today (4:00am today EST), the Holy Father, Pope Francis left the Apostolic Nunciature and travelled by car to Notre Dame College in Dhaka for a meeting with young people inside the College's sports field.

Upon his arrival, after having greeted the seven thousand young people gathered around the sports field, the Pope was welcomed by the Bishop of Barisal, the one who is entrusted with the Pastoral Care of Youth, His Excellency, Subroto Howlader, CSC; by the Rector of the University; and by the Director of Notre Dame College.  The Holy Father then blessed the corner stone of a new building which will be known as Notre Dame University Bangladesh, and a commemorative plaque.

Following a welcome dance, a song and words of greeting offered by the Bishop of Rajshahi and Vice President of the Bangladeshi Episcopal Conference, His Excellency, Gervas Rozario, there followed alternating songs, dances and testimonials provided by youth.  Then, Pope Francis shared his speech.


Speech of His Holiness, Pope Francis
for the meeting with young people in Dhaka

(translation in progress)

At the conclusion of the encounter, following a few words of greeting offered by the Archbishop of Dhaka, Cardinal Patrick D'Rozario, the Holy Father travelled by car to the Dhaka International airport for the official departure ceremony.

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