The following is the text of the video message sent by the Holy Father Francis ahead of his upcoming Apostolic Trip to Bangladesh, from 30 November to 2 December 2017:

Message of the Holy Father

Dear friends,

As I prepare to visit Bangladesh, in just a few days’ time, I wish to send a word of greeting and friendship to all the people. I cannot wait for the moment in which we will be able to stay together.

I come as a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to proclaim His message of reconciliation, forgiveness and peace. My visit is intended to confirm the Catholic community of Bangladesh in its faith and witness of the Gospel, which teaches the dignity of every man and woman, and calls upon us to open our hearts to others, especially the poorest and most in need.

At the same time I wish to encounter the entire population. I am especially keen to meet religious leaders in Ramna. We live in a time in which believers and men of good will in every place are called to promote mutual comprehension and respect, and to support each other as members of the single human family.

I know that many in Bangladesh are hard at work to prepare for my visit, and I thank them. I ask each one of you to pray that the days in which I will be with you may be a source of hope and encouragement for all. I invoke divine blessings of joy and peace upon you and your families! See you soon!