In his greetings after the Angelus prayer, Pope Francis expressed his concern and sorrow for the situation in Nicaragua and his hope that, through dialogue, a peaceful coexistence can be achieved.

Finally, Bergoglio also greeted the Roman faithful, including pilgrims from various countries, the community of the Pontifical North American College, the consecrated women of the Ordo virginum, the faithful of Verona, Trevignano, Pratissolo; the young people of Paternò, Lequile and, finally, those of the Via lucis and the children of the Immaculate Conception.

After the Angelus, the Holy Father continued:

Brothers and sisters,

I am following closely, with concern and sorrow, the situation created in Nicaragua that involves persons and institutions. I would like to express my conviction and my hope that, through an open and sincere dialogue, the basis for a respectful and peaceful co-existence might still be found. Let us ask the Lord, through the intercession of the Purísima, to inspire everyone’s heart with this concrete will.

Brothers and sisters, I greet all of you, people from Rome and pilgrims from various countries – families, parish groups, associations. In particular, I greet the community from the Pontifical North American College, especially the new seminaries who have just arrived, and I encourage them in their spiritual commitment, and urge them be faithful to the Gospel and to the Church. I greet those consecrated women in the Ordo virginum, and I encourage them to witness to the joy of the love of Christ.

I greet the faithful from Verona, Trevignano, Pratissolo, the young people from Paternò, Lequile and those participating in the Via lucis who, inspired by the example of the Saints “next door”, will be meeting with the poor who live near railway stations. And a greeting to the young people of the Immaculata.

Let us persevere in our closeness and in prayer for the dear Ukrainian people who are experiencing inhuman cruelty.

I wish all of you a happy Sunday. And, please do not forget to pray for me. Enjoy your lunch and arrivederci!