The newly elected Pope Francis will be inaugurated on Tuesday, March 19 during a papal inauguration ceremony at St. Peter’s Square, Rome, Italy.
Thousands are expected to attend along with world leaders and heads of state from around the world.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all Catholics around the world and here on Sint Maarten.
Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio who hails from Argentina was elected Pope last week and took the name Pope Francis on his assumption of the papacy.
The Catholic community of Sint Maarten and around the world have high hopes for the new Pope, and he has already made his mark with respect to his simplicity and humility, and his emphasis on helping the poor.
His Holiness shares many common goals with respect to social justice, human rights, the promotion of peace and the eradication of poverty and hunger.
On Tuesday, as His Holiness Pope Francis is inaugurated, let us all say a prayer for him with respect to the responsibility that he has on his shoulder, and may the Almighty God give him the strength to fulfil his agenda and promote his vision.
Sylvia Meyers
United People’s (UP) Party
Interim Faction Leader, Member of Parliament