Pope Benedict XVI welcomed to Mexico by adoring crowds

March 26, 2012

Pope Benedict XVI recently visited Mexico in his tour of South and Central American countries. The Associated Press reports more than 350,000 people showed up to wave to Benedict as he toured the city of Silao in his popemobile, wearing a sombrero. He then led Sunday Mass, and was met with cheers of "Viva el papa!"

"I've made a lot of trips, but I've never been welcomed with such enthusiasm," Benedict told the crowd before leading Mass, the AP reports. "Now I can understand why Pope John Paul II used to say, 'I feel like I'm a Mexican pope.'"

The pope's speech touched on the plight of the Mexican people, their struggles and hardships. He told those of faith to turn to religion to help them through their troubles.

"At this time, when so many families are separated or forced to emigrate, when so many are suffering due to poverty, corruption, domestic violence, drug trafficking, the crisis of values and increased crime, we come to Mary in search of consolation, strength and hope," the Pope said during his visit, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Those who are working or living abroad can make calls to Mexico with international calling cards to speak with their families about the pope's visit.

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