Pope Francis Touches On Poverty, Drugs In Mexico

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Pope Francis celebrated mass at Mexico's Basilica of our Lady of Guadalupe - one of the most holy sites in Latin America.

Before celebrating mass on Saturday, Pope Francis blessed the entrance of the basilica.

Five thousand people attended the service and thousands more watched outside including a young boy. He ran up to the pope and received a kiss.

The Holy Father's homily touched on themes of his visit: poverty, drugs and immigration.

Afterwards, he spent nearly 20 minutes alone to pray before Mexico's patron saint representing the Virgin Mary.

Pope Francis said he was coming to Mexico as both a missionary and a pilgrim as his visit to the basilica displayed.

The pope's day began with an official welcome ceremony at the National Palace where he delivered a tough love message to Mexican politicians. He urged them to resist privilege and serve those in need.

Thousands waited to catch a glimpse of his pope mobile.

"It was very exciting experience here with my mother. It was a blessing," said Lila Aldana who traveled from Guatemala to see the pope.

The pope will celebrate Sunday mass outside Mexico City at a field that holds nearly half a million people.

So far, Pope Francis had clocked about 23 miles in his pope mobile. He has another 93 to go before his trip ends next Wednesday.