All the necessary preparations have been made to welcome one of the most important world and religious leaders, the Holy Father Pope Francis, said Prime Minister Zoran Zaev at today’s press conference outside the Memorial House of Mother Teresa.
He added that the visit coincides with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our country and the Vatican.
“With the visit of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, The Vatican’s closeness and warmth towards us are confirmed, because of the joint celebration on the occasion of the celebration of St. Cyril and Methodius. His visit to us will mean affirmation of a small country in the eyes of the whole world. The values he promotes, such as solidarity, respect, help, forgiveness, reconciliation are important for this moment in the country, and that’s what we stand for as a government”, Zaev said.
According to Bishop Kiro Stojanov, the Pope’s visit is for three reasons. Firstly, the good bilateral relations between the two countries and the cooperation at different levels.
“We often talk about the Church on the outskirts, and he is visiting a small but lively communty to encourage the faithful. The third reason is that Skopje is the birthplace of Mother Teresa, who is an example of how to serve those who are most in need, and how we should approach them with love”, Stojanov said, adding that Pope Francis will arrive with cardinals, archbishops, bishops and priests.
Fifteen thousand followers are expected to attend the Mass conducted by Pope Francis on Macedonia Square in Skopje.
