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.

     There is little doubt that the thousands who participated in the Pope's meetings with young people and civic leaders will forever treasure their conversations with His Holiness. On more than one occasion Bergoglio neatly summarized the content of his prepared talks, while on other occasions - as during his meeting with young people as the sun set over the banks of the Paraguay River - he preferred to improvise his responses  after hearing personal testimonies from the participants. He also broadened the conversation to include the thousands who were present, summarizing the essential points of his reflections and having the crowds know catholic faith them.