"We should not be afraid. Fear is not from God. Rather, we should go in search of this truth," Dr. Alfio Bonanno said.

The country has descended into chaos after years of food shortages and economic turmoil under embattled President Nicolas Maduro's government

Pope Francis will declare the sainthood of Blessed Jacinta Marto and Blessed Francisco Marto, two of the shepherd children who saw Mary in Fatima, Portugal, during his visit to the site of the apparitions May 13.

The focus is more on the message than the miracle.

The miracles and unexplained phenomenon that accompanied the events 100 years ago continue to intrigue believers and nonbelievers alike.

This gesture, he continued, is meant to "sow love among us" and that the faithful, even those in prison, can imitate Christ in the same manner.

As extraordinary as the apparitions at Fatima, Portugal, nearly 100 years ago were, the sanctity of the shepherd children did not hinge on their having seen Mary, a cardinal said.

The "Lavanderia di Papa Francesco" ("Pope Francis Laundry") is a free service "offered to the poorest people."

Humility, courage and openness are crucial in creating harmony between social, scientific and political bodies, the pope said.

Pope Francis has made it possible for bishops to ensure the validity of marriages celebrated in the traditionalist communities.