Pope is grateful for Brazil’s “welcome” to him

Pope Francis expressed his gratitude today through his Twitter account, for “the magnificent reception” provided by the inhabitants of Rio de Janeiro, where he arrived yesterday to participate in the XXVIII World Youth Day (WYD).

“Thank You Thank You Thank you all and the authorities for the wonderful welcome you gave me on the Carioca land,” wrote Pope Jorge Mario Bergoglio this morning, having spent his first night in Rio de Janeiro.

“Today we begin a great week in Rio. Let this be an occasion to deepen our friendship with Jesus Christ,” said the Argentine Pope.

The XXVIII World Youth Day will be officially opened today, with a Mass at the Copacabana beach, which is not expected to count on the presence of the pontiff, who will be resting after a busy day yesterday.

Pope Francis is being well received by the people of Brazil.