EKO HOT BLOG reports that, Pope Francis embarked on his first trip outside of Rome in seven months, visiting Venice for a packed itinerary that included an art exhibition, a prison visit, and a Mass.
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Despite recent health challenges, the 87-year-old pontiff addressed the faithful, acknowledging the difficulties of his role, stating,
“Please pray for me because this work is not easy.”
His visit to a women’s prison underscored his call for societal support for the marginalized, emphasizing the potential for moral and material renewal within the prison system.
Pope Francis’ Venice Visit Highlights Call for Social Support and Addressing City’s Challenges
He urged young Venetians to prioritize helping others over self-absorption, cautioning against excessive focus on personal needs and technology.
While praising Venice’s beauty, he highlighted the city’s challenges, including climate change, cultural heritage preservation, and overtourism.
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The pontiff’s trip signals a return to travel after previous cancellations due to health issues, with upcoming visits planned within Italy and abroad, including a summit of Group of Seven (G7) leaders in Bari and a tour of Southeast Asia in September.