Pope Francis has sent a personal message to U.S. President Donald Trump, offering congratulations on his inauguration day as well as prayers for his leadership.
In his note, the Pope sent his “cordial good wishes,” along with prayers “that Almighty God will grant you wisdom and strength in the exercise of your high office.”
Recalling the “grave humanitarian crises” facing the world, Francis prayed that Trump’s decisions might be guided by “the rich spiritual and ethical values that have shaped the history of the American people.”
The Pope also expressed his wish that under the new President’s leadership America’s stature might “continue to be measured above all by its concern for the poor, the outcast and those in need.”
Francis closed his message by asking God to grant “his blessings of peace, concord and every material and spiritual prosperity” to the President and his family “and all the beloved American people.”
In his inauguration speech, President Trump referenced the biblical passage that notes “how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.”
He also said that Americans should not be afraid, because they are protected “by the great men and women of our military and law enforcement” and “most importantly, we will be protected by God.”
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