Upon his arrival at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Pope Francis informally asked permission to enter the country. Saying he wanted to “knock gently” at Brazil’s door, he said, “I ask permission to come in and spend this week with you.” There was no objection.
The Catholic Church is expecting up to one and a half million pumped-up young people and others to attend the event. Brazil spent approximately $60 million in public funds on security and logistics, hoping to project a good image.
During his remarks at the presidential palace, the pope said “I have neither silver nor gold.” In actual fact, the Papacy has much gold and silver, and money and valuable art and beautiful palaces which it refuses to use for the benefit of the poor.
“But I bring with me the most precious thing given to me: Jesus Christ!”
The papal visit to Brazil is a public relations extravaganza that builds enthusiasm for a church that is steeped in scandal. Francis’ personal humility will certainly go a long way to keeping people deceived concerning the nature of the Papacy.
“Men may have their names upon the church-book; but that does not make them children of light. They may hold honorable positions and receive the praise of men; but that does not make them children of light. They may shut themselves in monasteries, and clothe themselves in garments of sanctity, and yet not be the children of light.” Signs of the Times, August 18, 1887
“And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead [was] a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” Revelation 17:4, 5
“All the world wondered after the beast.” Revelation 13:3
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