On January 10, 2025, Pope Francis welcomed a group of young cancer patients from Poland who are receiving treatment at the pediatric oncology clinic “Cape of Hope” in Wrocław. These brave children, accompanied by their parents, doctors, nurses, and a priest, embarked on a pilgrimage from their hometown to Rome, where they were warmly received by the Holy Father at the Vatican.
During the audience, Pope Francis expressed his admiration and gratitude for the children, reminding them that they are “witnesses of hope” not only to those around them but to the entire world. “Thank you for coming, you are brave!” the pope said. “And so you are witnesses of hope for us adults and for your peers.” His words were filled with love and encouragement, recognizing the strength and courage of the children who, despite their struggles, continue to inspire others.
The pilgrimage took place during a special jubilee year focused on hope, a year Pope Francis highlighted as an opportunity for God’s grace. He encouraged the children to see themselves as living signs of God’s hope, affirming that their courage in the face of illness bears witness to the profound truth of the Christian faith—hope in Jesus Christ.
In his remarks, Pope Francis reminded the children that, in their suffering, they are united with Jesus, who took on human suffering out of love for humanity. “Why? Because I am sure that Jesus is present in you,” he explained. “And where he is, there is hope that does not disappoint! Jesus took our sufferings upon himself, out of love, and then we too, through his love, can join him when we suffer.”
The pope also spoke about the importance of friendship, emphasizing that true friends share each other’s joy and pain, just as Jesus shares in the suffering of his followers. The children, their families, and the medical professionals who care for them are all part of this sacred bond of love and support.
This poignant meeting served as a powerful reminder of the Christian belief in the redemptive power of suffering, where even in moments of hardship, God’s love and presence bring comfort and hope. Pope Francis expressed his joy at being able to meet the children, who he believes are true witnesses of the hope that Jesus offers to the world.
The “Cape of Hope” clinic in Wrocław, which opened in 2015 as part of the Wrocław Medical University, is dedicated to supporting young cancer patients and their families. The children on this pilgrimage represent not only their personal struggles but also the larger community of those battling cancer and illness, who continue to show incredible resilience and faith in the face of suffering.
As they continue their journey through this year of hope, the children and their families will carry with them the prayers and support of the worldwide Catholic community, knowing that, like Jesus, they are never alone in their suffering.
