Boots Anson-Roa, family deliver welcome message for Pope Francis

“Twenty years ago, January of 1995, St. John Paul II visited this nation for the second time for the celebration of the World Youth Day here in Manila. During the concluding mass, St. John Paul II reminded all of us especially to you that every Christian shares in the mission of Christ in a unique and personal way,” King Rodrigo said.

He also talked about Pope Francis’ mission, that everyone should help one another.

“From the beginning of your pontificate, you made it clear you want us to go out in the streets and touch the wounds of Jesus in the poor,” Rodrigo added.

After presenting the speech, Pope Francis blessed each member most especially Remedios King, the matriarch of the family. Remedios gave the garlands to the pope.

In an interview on TV Patrol last January 12, Rodrigo expressed his happiness to be part of the of Encounter with Families. The matriach of the family, Remedios said that she felt “very blessed.”

In an interview with the Inquirer, Boots said she hoped not to be overwhelmed by the experience.

“I pray I don’t get overwhelmed by Pope Francis’ presence and call him “Sir” instead of “Your Holiness,” as I did in 1981 when my family was chosen for special audience with the now-St. John Paul II,” Boots said. – Rappler.com