Christianity spreads through the joy of disciples who know that they are loved and saved.

The real power is love, that which empowers others, that which arouses action, that which no chain is able to hold back, for even on the Cross or on the death bed one is able to love. One does not need youthful beauty, nor recognition or approval, nor money or prestige. Let love simply bloom...and it is unstoppable.

I entrust this Twenty-second World Day of the Sick to the intercession of Mary. I ask her to help the sick to bear their sufferings in fellowship with Jesus Christ and to support all those who care for them. To all the ill, and to all the health-care workers and volunteers who assist them, I cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing.

Accompanying the people in their growth through good times and also through their difficulties, accompanying people in their joy and in their bad moments, in their difficulties when there is no work, ill health and the challenge of the Church.

I believe that in pretty much every religion there is always a small group of fundamentalists.

Children have a right to grow up in a family with a father and a mother.

You have cast out the wonder of creation - man and woman - and you have put money in its place. This is a basic terrorism against all of humanity! Think about it!