Thousands gathered in Guanajuato on the second day of Pope Benedict's visit to Mexico.
People lined the streets as the Pope mobile made its way to the Plaza of Peace. Many were waving gold and white Vatican flags.
Guanajuato in central Mexico is a conservative state, and the enthusiasm for the Pope's visit has been immense. Mexico has the second largest population of Catholics in the world.
At the plaza, the Pope gave a message to Mexico's children.
(SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) POPE BENEDICT XVI, SAYING:
"You have a very special place in the Pope's heart. And In these moments, I would like all the children of Mexico to know this, especially those who have had to bear the burden of suffering, abandonment, violence or hunger."
He said he wished to stand for the protection and care of children, pledging the support of the Catholic Church.
White doves were released as a symbol of peace.
The Pope's visit was clouded by fresh allegations that that the Vatican hid evidence of sex abuse by a prominent church leader in Mexico.
Religious scholar Bernando Barranco launched a new book he co-authored, containing leaked documents which details Church officials ignored complaints of drug use and molestation of seminarians by the late Father Marcial Maciel.
Barranco said the Pope likely knew about the allegations early on. But Maciel was spared official censure and only after allegations against him mounted did Pope Benedict order him to retire.
Thirty-year-old university student Jesus Romero was a victim of priest abuse, and he said it affected him in many ways.
(SOUNDBITE)(Spanish) JESUS ROMERO, SAYING:
"I've had problems with alcoholism and drug addiction, fights, low self-esteem. I didn't go to school. I spent all my time under the effects of alcohol. It was difficult for me to relate to people, or with a partner. It has affected my whole life."
Victims of priest abuse said they sought an audience with the Pope, but their calls remained unanswered. Mexico's Episcopal conference said it would be difficult to change the Pope's schedule.
Michaela Cabrera, Reuters.
