The following is the video message of greetings and thanks sent by the Holy Father Francis to the people of Madagascar for his upcoming Apostolic Trip, to take place from 6 to 10 September 2019, upon invitation by the country’s highest authorities:

Video Message of the Holy Father

Dear brothers and sisters of Madagascar!

By God's grace, I will be with you in a few days! I wish to convey to you now my cordial greeting, together with thanks for all that you have done and are doing to prepare for my visit. Above all, I thank you for your prayer – personal, in families and in parish communities, as well as in hospitals and prisons. Prayer knows no boundaries, and when I am in Madagascar, even if I can only visit some places, with prayer I will reach everyone, and for all I will implore God’s blessing.

Dear Malagasy friends, your country is famous for its natural beauty, and for this we say: “Laudato si’ – Praise be!” It is our duty to safeguard it with care. But there is another beauty that is even more dear to Christ and to the Pope: that of the people, that is, your holiness! For this reason, I will come to confirm you in faith and at the same time to draw from it. May the Blessed Virgin obtain for us this gift. Thank you, and see you soon!