Pope delivers mass in Mexico (PHOTOS)

Pope Benedict XVI donned a sombrero and blessed the Christ the King statue from a helicopter before conducting an open-air mass for 350,000 people today near Silao, Mexico.

The pope’s 3-day trip continues to endear him to Mexicans, who connected deeply with his predecessor, John Paul II, The Associated Press reported.

Benedict also made special reference to the Virgin Mary during mass, another important icon in Mexico, while speaking to pressing social issues such as drug violence and emigration.

“At this time, when so many families are separated or forced to emigrate, when so many are suffering due to poverty, corruption, domestic violence, drug trafficking, the crisis of values and increased crime, we come to Mary in search of consolation, strength and hope,” the pope said as mass concluded at Bicentennial Park.

“She is the mother of the true God, who invites us to stay with faith and charity beneath her mantle, so as to overcome in this way all evil and to establish a more just and fraternal society.”