"Next Friday, I will begin my first pastoral journey to France as the successor of Peter. The day before my arrival, I wish to address my warmest greetings to the French people and to all the population of this most beloved country". These are the first few words of the message to France, which Benedict XVI read this morning during the general audience, at the end of the catechesis. "I come among you as a messenger of peace and fraternity", went on the Pontiff, pointing out his relation with the country, which is "by no means unknown" and where he had "the joy" of going on several occasions. After speaking of its "generous tradition of tolerance and friendliness, as well as the soundness of its Christian faith" and "high human and cultural culture", the Pope stated: "This time, I come to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the apparitions of the Virgin in Lourdes". "After visiting Paris", he explained, "I will have the great joy of joining the crowd of pilgrims who will walk along the Jubilee trail, in Saint Bernadette’s footsteps, as far as the grotto of Massabielle". (continued)
