Laudato Si Dance: Francis Enjoys Visit to Luxembourg
On board the plane, Francis, who the Vatican press office said on Monday was suffering from a slight cold, mentioned that he did not feel up to walking down the aisle in the plane to greet everyone individually, as he usually does. He thanked the journalists who accompanied him: "I am at your disposal."
In Luxembourg, Francis told political leaders that the country's birth rate must increase: "Please let's have more children."
After lunch and before entering Luxembourg's cathedral, Francis and some aides stopped for an espresso at a cafe, posing for friendly photos with locals. On the way, he met and blessed a pregnant woman.
At the cathedral, Francis thanked the country for always being a "welcoming home" for immigrants.
In a dance performance in the cathedral, Franciscan friars, young people and children performed a scene from the musical "Laudato si". One girl danced in a butterfly costume.
On 27 September, Francis will meet Belgian bishops, priests and religious leaders, before meeting students at the 'Catholic' University of Louvain. On Sunday he will preside at a Eucharist in the King Baudouin stadium.
Picture: Vatican Media, #newsZumsdevraq