Pope Francis has embarked on his 41st abroad Apostolic Journey in Budapest, Hungary. The three-day journey will last from April 28 to April 30. Vatican News reports Pope took off from Rome’s Fiumicino Airport on Friday morning at 8:21 AM.
On Pope’s arrival at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport at 11:54 AM local time, he was warmly welcomed by the Hungarian Vice Prime Minister Zsolt Semjén and two children performing the country’s traditional welcome greeting.
The Pontiff’s first visit on his arrival was to Sándor Palace, the official residence of president of Hungary, Katalin Novák. He was welcomed with a guard of honor along with the Vatican and Hungary Anthem. Pope further greeted the President, Prime ministers, and other officials. He also took official photographs and signed the country’s Book of Honor which read:
“I come as a pilgrim and friend to Hungary, a country rich in history and culture. In Budapest, city of bridges and of saints, I think of all Europe, and pray that, in unity and solidarity, it might be in our times to a house of peace and a prophecy of welcome.”
The Holy Father had his first public meeting with the country’s Authorities, Civil Society, and members of the Diplomatic Corps on his first day of visit. During the meeting, Pope shared his thought with them, describing Budapest as “a city of history, a city of bridges and a city of saints.”
After the meeting with the authorities, Pope met with the Church leaders. He spoke to the Bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated women and men, seminarians, and pastoral workers. His thoughts focused on the resurrected Christ being “indeed our future.”
The meeting however marked the end of his first day activities.