Pope Francis beatifies martyrs, visits disabled
- 10 years ago
Pope Francis continued his visit in South Korea Saturday by celebrating a Mass in the center of Seoul to an estimated one million people.
During the service, he beatified 124 Korean martyrs who died in the 18th and 19th centuries for refusing to denounce their Christian beliefs.
Christianity has unique roots here as it was not brought by Western missionaries but instead spread by Korean intellectuals who read about the religion in literature.
Francis said the martyrs' courage and charity and their rejection of the rigid social structures of their day should be an inspiration for people today.
(nats children singing)
Later Francis visited House of Hope, a center that cares for disabled adults, children, and infants.
He spent time meeting the residents and was treated to a special performance.
As he left he raised his arms above his head, making a heart to signify "I love you".
During the service, he beatified 124 Korean martyrs who died in the 18th and 19th centuries for refusing to denounce their Christian beliefs.
Christianity has unique roots here as it was not brought by Western missionaries but instead spread by Korean intellectuals who read about the religion in literature.
Francis said the martyrs' courage and charity and their rejection of the rigid social structures of their day should be an inspiration for people today.
(nats children singing)
Later Francis visited House of Hope, a center that cares for disabled adults, children, and infants.
He spent time meeting the residents and was treated to a special performance.
As he left he raised his arms above his head, making a heart to signify "I love you".