Original Source: www.lefigaro.fr
In recent developments surrounding Pope Francis’s planned visit to Corsica, much speculation has arisen regarding his absence from the reopening of Notre-Dame in Paris. Cardinal François-Xavier Bustillo, the Archbishop of Ajaccio, offers insights that clarify the context of the Pope’s decisions. Scheduled for December 15, the Pope’s visit to Corsica focuses on a congress surrounding popular piety, addressing the spiritual needs of Mediterranean bishops and heralding a unique connection to the local populace. His choices have ignited discussions on the significance of pastoral care and diplomatic relationships in the global religious landscape, presenting a multifaceted narrative of faith, place, and leadership.
In a poignant dialogue, Cardinal François-Xavier Bustillo, the Archbishop of Ajaccio, sheds light on the impending visit of Pope Francis to Corsica, scheduled for December 15. This occasion has emerged amidst bewilderment following the Pope’s refusal to attend the festive reopening of Notre-Dame in Paris on December 8. The cardinal assures that there is no intent to undermine Paris’s significance; rather, the decision aligns with the Pope’s fervent desire to engage with the local community, focusing on the devotion of the faithful in Corsica.
The Vatican has confirmed that the Pope will partake in a congress on popular piety, gathering bishops from Mediterranean nations. The visit will culminate in a grand mass in Ajaccio. These events have sparked contrasting sentiments, as many interpret the Pope’s absence from Paris as a slight, while others advocate for understanding his prioritisation of local pastoral needs in the serene embrace of Corsica’s rich spiritual heritage. In this light, the visit is afar more than a diplomatic engagement; it serves as a heartfelt connection to the souls in the Mediterranean basin.
Responses to the delay in announcing the trip, which has been a source of speculation, stem largely from meticulous planning. Cardinal Bustillo explains that every detail, even those that may appear minor, must be perfectly harmonised to ensure the Pope’s well-being, particularly considering his health. Each gesture, from the alignment with republican authorities to the sacred rites planned, underscores a harmonious coexistence of faith and civic duty.
Additionally, the cardinal elucidates on the diplomatic nuances at play; the Pope, as a sovereign, responds to invitations in a manner befitting a leader. Reassuringly, he clarifies that no friction was felt from the French state regarding the invitation for the Pope’s visit. The conversations between the Élysée and the Vatican were indeed ceremonial yet vital, emphasizing that such engagements reflect mutual respect rather than mere formalities. As the Pope embarks on this sacred journey, it becomes clear that his heart resonates deeply with the people of Corsica, allowing for a dialogue that echoes through history and into the present.
