Vatican City, 13 April 2016 – During the summary of today's catechesis in various languages, the Pope gave special greetings to Polish pilgrims, as in these days the Church in Poland celebrates the 1,050th anniversary of the baptism of the nation. Francis joined with the pastors and faithful to give thanks to the Lord for this historical event that over the centuries has shaped the faith, spirituality and culture of the country "in the community of peoples that Christ invited to participate in the mystery of His death and resurrection".

"Give thanks to the Lord", said Francis, repeating the words of St. John Paul II, "for the gift of having been, more than a thousand years ago, baptised in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, of having been immersed in the water that, by grace, perfects in us the image of the living God, in the water that is a wave of eternity: 'a spring of water welling up to eternal life'. I ask of God that the present and future generations of Poland remain faithful to the grace of baptism, giving witness of Christ's love and that of His Church. May merciful God impart His blessing upon all the Polish living in the country and abroad".

The Holy Father also greeted Slovakian pilgrims, reminding them that next Sunday will be World Day of Prayer for Vocations, and he asked them to pray to Christ, the Good Shepherd, always to send them new workers in His service.