Pope thanks his Secretariat

At 10:00am this morning, the Holy Father, Pope Francis arrived in the Library of the Vatican Secretariat of State where he met with all the personnel from the two Sections of the Secretariat (those who deal with the interal workings of the Church, and those who concentrate on the Vatican's relations with other nations).  There were approximately 300 personnel in attendance this morning, including priests, religious (both priests and nuns) and laity, all of whom work in various capacities within the Secretariat.

The Cardinal Secretary of State, Tracisio Bertone first introduced the Holy Father with a brief greeting and orientation, and assuring the Pope of the dedicated and corial service of all those who work in various capacities within the Secretariat, which is truly the Pope's Secretariat.

The Pope responded with a few words, concentrating on the theme of sincerity and cordial gratitude for the warm welcome which was given him, and for the abundant work undertaken by the Secretariat in recent days.  In fact, tomorrow will mark one month since Pope Francis was elected, and he wanted to express his appreciation to all the members of the Secretariat for their precious and invaluable service.

After having imparted a blessing upon all those present, the Pope personally greeted every one of those present, just as he has done with each member of every group which has visited with him following his election.

The meeting this morning lasted about 50 minutes.