Pope Francis assured today that Evangelism in America was accompanied by “worldly interests” and “pre-created models were imposed, for example, European, with no respect for indigenous peoples.” during a general audience at the Vatican.

“In America (…) evangelism has an ever-living source: Guadeloupe. Of course, the gospel came before these appearances, but, unfortunately, it was accompanied by worldly interests,” the pontiff explained during the catechism, during which he reflected on the American continent.

For this reason, “instead of the path of inculturation, there was too often a haste to transplant and impose pre-created models, for example, European ones. with no respect for indigenous peoples.” he said in front of thousands of believers gathered in the hall of Paul VI.

“The Virgin of Guadalupe, on the other hand, appears dressed in the clothes of the natives, speaks their language, welcomes and loves the culture of the place: she is a mother and every child finds a place under her mantle,” added Francisco, who reflected on the “mother tongue announcement: San Juan Diego, messenger” Mexican virgin.

In this sense, he continued: “The gospel is transmitted in the native language. And I want to thank so many mothers and grandmothers who pass this on to their children and grandchildren: faith passes with life, therefore mothers and grandmothers are the first heralds. Applause to mothers and grandmothers,” he said, raising a standing ovation from the faithful.

In the words of Francis, “The gospel is transmitted, as Mary shows, in simplicity: the Virgin always chooses the simple, on the Tepeyac hill in Mexico, as in Lourdes and Fatima: speaking to them, He speaks to everyone, in the language of each, in a language that is convenient for everyone, understandable, like the language of Jesus.