Vatican City, 8 April 2016 – This morning in the Clementine Hall the Holy Father received in audience 225 members of the Papal Foundation, the Catholic organisation that has, since 1988, supported charitable projects throughout the world on behalf of the pope. He thanked them for their generosity to him and to the Church throughout the world, and on behalf of those who are assisted through the Foundation's charitable works.

This year the annual pilgrimage of the Papal Foundation took place within the context of the Jubilee of Mercy, during which "we are called by Christ to share this mercy with those who are spiritually and materially in need through the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, with that spirit of generosity and tenderness that reflects God’s immeasurable goodness", said Francis.

"The works of mercy are at the heart of your mission", he continued. By supporting diocesan, parish and community projects and providing scholarships, the Papal Foundation's charity "reverberates throughout the world, offering new initiatives that help to extend the merciful embrace of the Father".

"I pray that these days of pilgrimage have been for you a new impetus to holiness, and that you have experienced the gift of God’s mercy", the Holy Father concluded. "St. Paul reminds us to never grow tired of doing good".