
One hundred Peruvian pilgrims came to yesterday”s General Audience, held in Paul VI Hall, to wish Pope Francis a good trip.
The Pontiff will leave on January 15, for his first Apostolic Journey of the New Year, which will take him first to Peru (January 15-18) and then to Chile (January 18-22). The pilgrims, residents in France for reasons of work, brought a gift to the Holy Father: the image of the Virgen de la Puerta [Virgin of the Door] very dear to the Peruvian people.
Pope Francis” visit “is a sign of unity and hope for us all, and it will re-launch solidarity, justice and understanding for a future of peace for our people,” said the representatives of the Franco-Peruvian  Cultural Association of Essonne, France, as reported by L”Osservatore Romano.