Pope Francis has arrived in Panama

Vatican Media Screenshot

Pope Francis Arrives in Panama for World Youth Days

Welcomes by President Juan Carlos Varela and Wife, ‎Lorena Castillo

January 23, 2019 23:01Jim FairWorld Youth Days

Pope Francis arrived in Panama on January 23, 2019, disembarking from his plane from Rome at 4:30 local time at Tocumen International Airport. He was greeted by Panama’s President, Juan Carlos Varela, and Wife, ‎Lorena Castillo.

Also on hand to make the Holy Father feel welcome were children, dancers, a military band, the bishops of Panama, and crowds displaying an ample degree of enthusiasm.

The Pope has a full program before returning to Rome the evening of Sunday, January 17.  Most is centered on World Youth Days.

Having completed the “official” welcomes, it appeared the Pope would get into his car for the drive to the Apostolic Nunciature, where he will stay during his time in Panama. However, not unlike past encounters with Francis, he bypassed the car for several minutes of close interaction with the crowds.