During Thursday evening's Vespers service at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan, Pope Francis delivered a very special message to the women of the Catholic Church.
"What would the Church be without you?" he asked. "Women of strength, fighters, with that spirit of courage which puts you in the front lines in the proclamation of the Gospel. To you, religious women, sisters and mothers of this people, I wish to say, 'Thank you.' A big thank you...and to tell you that I love you very much." The pontiff received three standing ovations during this part of the speech, even though The Washington Post reports church officials had asked the audience before the Pope's arrival to refrain from applauding.
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