Planning for Pope Francis ’visit to Canada this summer is going according to plan, despite news that his trip to Africa has been canceled on the recommendation of his doctors.
During this anticipated passage, the Pope must offer an apology to Indigenous peoples on behalf of the Roman Catholic Church for its role in the residential school system for Indigenous children in Canada. He had already asked for forgiveness earlier this year when a delegation of representatives of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis visited Rome.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops continues to engage with Vatican officials to prepare for the pope’s visit next month, Toronto Archdiocese spokesman Neil MacCarthy has confirmed.
” We continue to pray for the health of Pope Francis and that he will be with us in Canada next month. “
The 85-year-old church leader has been in a wheelchair for more than a month and has difficulty walking and standing.
From July 2 to 7, prior to his trip to Canada, the sovereign pontiff will visit the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. The Vatican announced on Friday that it had been forced to postpone this trip so as not to interfere with treatment which he is currently suffering from due to knee problems.
According to Pope Francis ’itinerary in Canada, he will stop in Edmonton, Quebec and Iqaluit between July 24 and 29.
Neil MacCarthy explained that the Pope’s itinerary included some long periods of rest to allow him to participate in all the organized events.
According to the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, the pope is limited in his travel possibilities. He can no longer ride helicopters and can no longer travel more than an hour in a vehicle.
An estimated 150,000 indigenous children are forced to attend residential schools in Canada. More than 60% of these establishments are operated by the Catholic Church.
France Media Agency
Source: Radio-Canada
