POPE FRANCIS' IN ECUADOR, BOLIVIA AND PARAGUAY
A GOSPEL FESTIVAL The most striking and enduring image that emerges from Pope Francis' apostolic journey in latin America is perhaps that of a festival". This was fully evident at the farewell ceremony in Paraguay, full of music and colour, exemplifying the spontaneous, popular atmosphere that characterized the entire trip. It was a reflection, or at least was perceived as such, of the Gospel joy which lies at the heart of the missionary outreach of Francis' entire pontificate. Many people have noted Pope Francis' extraordinary ability to communicate, and this week in latin America he demonstrated why. It was evident whenever he remarked how at home he felt, but it was particularly evident in his interactions and the way in which he dialogues with others. It was perceivable in his words, but it was especially visible in his gestures, so full of tenderness and intimacy, as when he visited Baቨado Norte, a neighborhood on the periphery of Asuncion.