The following is the text of the video message sent by the Holy Father Francis to the Argentine people on the vigil of the Feast of Our Lady of Luján, Patroness of Argentina, held on 8 May:

Video Message of the Holy Father

In the month of May, the month of Mary, 8 May, I look towards Luján.

I wish to be close to you on Friday 7, in the vigils, when all you bishops will gather to pray the Rosary for the health of the Argentine people. I will accompany you from here. And also on Saturday 8, when there will be the Rosary from the Shrine, to be held that day at 13.00, and at 19.00 with the Mass for the change of the cloak. In that Mass I know you will be convened to prepare together the novenary of 2030 to celebrate 400 years since the miracle. It is a very long journey, but one that goes by quickly, one that must be done. A journey to commemorate what the Virgin did there, she wanted to stay there. A journey of memory, of years and years of pilgrimage, of searching, of miracles, of daughters and sons who journey to see the mother.

May memory be your guide in this encounter, because strong memory guarantees a sure future. Remember all that the Virgin has accomplished in your homeland. Let yourselves be accompanied by Her, and accompany her in her journey. May God bless you all and may the Virgin keep you. And please, do not forget to pray for me. Thank you.