A heart for the family has always been one of the greatest characteristics of the teachings of Pope Francis. On his second day in the Philippines, he displayed his love for the family to an ecstatic crowd who warmly showed how much he was loved back at the “Meeting With Families”, an event organized by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

He met with a diverse group of Filipino families at the MOA Complex and Mall of Asia Arena including those representing OFWs and PWDs, hearing their testimonies on poverty, migration and disability.

Approximately 15,000 were inside the arena, 18,000 in the South Open Parking, and 300,000 onlookers in Papal route to the complex. All along his route, there was an air of jubilation, with thousands upon thousands cheering and shouting “We love you, Lolo Kiko!“ and holding out placards bearing the nickname Filipinos fondly gave him.

As he marched up the stage, he stopped to bless people and families including a sick child, senior citizens and persons with disability.

The Pope celebrated the Liturgy of the Word, which involved a reading of the Holy Gospel, reflection, prayer, and blessings for all families that were present. In his message he called on Catholics to protect the family, noting that economic challenges are tearing families apart as more people migrate to seek better opportunities.

He also reiterated his message of defending marriage and family, saying, “every threat to family is a threat to society.” He also reminded everyone to take time out to pray every day and not lose the capacity to dream, “for when you lose the capacity to dream, you lose the capacity to love.”

The actual proceedings in the Mall of Asia Arena was flashed outside of the complex for more to witness and be part of the Pope’s encounter with the families and experience the presence of His Holiness. Inside SM Mall of Asia, a commemorative Papal Stamp exhibit at Main Mall Atrium completed the experience for those who were there