Filipinos have faced multiple challenges over the years. But these downfalls did not shake their faith. This is quite evident on their behavior last week when Pope Francis visited the Philippines. Millions of people waited for hours just to have a glimpse of the pontiff's smile. Regardless of the rainy weather, Filipinos were patient enough to attend Pope Francis' mass.
In fact, a source says that more than 6 million people went to see the mass last Sunday. With the number of people who have gathered, it was said to be the biggest for a papal gathering so far.
The security was aslo really tight for the Pope's visit. Naval boats, helicopters, thousands of authorities were prepared and organized for the 5 - day stay of the Pope in the country. Telecom companies were said to have jammed their signals for security reasons. Looking back, it was indeed successful. Even the roads which the pontiff took were clear. Apart from the authorities, the civilians are to be commended as well. They have obviously done their part in order for the whole visit to be as seamless as it could get.
Pope Francis was also able to visit Tacloban, a city that was badly hit by the strong Typhoon Haiyan. It was very moving to see the typhoon victims praying solemnly, even after experiencing such devastation. At the time of Pope Francis' visit, the weather was bad and a storm was approaching. Because of such, it was reported that the Pope had to leave earlier than what was scheduled.
AmericaMagazine.com was able to have a full transcript of the Pope's press conference from his flight from Manila to Rome. The Pope shared that he was moved by the gestures of many Filipinos, particularly the fathers who would carry their children to be blessed by the Pope. It's as if they are saying that their kids are their treasure.
The pope not only left a world - record for the biggest papal gathering. He left Filipinos with a much stronger faith in their hearts.
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