Keynote of papal visit is simplicity

Ahead of his visit to Colombia on 6-11 September, Pope Francis has asked that all travel within the country take place in non-armoured, humble vehicles, according to the country’s bishops, writes Martha Pskowski. He has also requested to stay in the Apostolic Nunciature in Bogota for the duration of his visit.

A peace deal between the Government and Farc rebels was brokered last year with the help of the Pope. Nonetheless, Francis will visit at a moment of political tensions in Colombia, as the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebel group has begun peace negotiations with the Government. The Colombian Bishops’ Conference has asked the ELN to accept a ceasefire in honour of Francis’ visit, and called on the group to release two Dutch journalists recently taken hostage in Norte de Santander province.