Ecatepec, Mexico welcomed Pope Francis on Sunday. Hundreds of thousands of people–many of whom were on foot and clad in white–gathered in hopes of catching a glimpse of the pontiff.

Pope Francis was bringing a message of hope and peace to those living in Ecatepec, Mexico and the surrounding areas, known for gangland-style executions, drug violence, and daily kidnappings.

The Pope is set visit the femicide-stricken city of Ecatepec, Mexico https://t.co/Edf1v5ARHy pic.twitter.com/Qzfy5BLwsT

— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) February 14, 2016

Ignacia Godinez is a homemaker in Ecatepec, Mexico. She said his arrival brings comfort.

“He’s coming to Ecatepec because we need him here,” she said. Kidnappings, robberies, and drugs have all increased, and he brings comfort. His message will reach those who need it, so that people know we, the good people, outnumber the bad.”

Pope Francis’ decision to celebrate the largest Mass during his Mexican visit in Ecatepec highlights his priorities. He is known for serving those on society’s margins.

65-year-old Conchita Tellez spent 38 hours on a bus to get to Ecatepec, Mexico.

Ecatepec Mass expected to be Pope's largest in Mexico https://t.co/QrW7ItxZmt

— KHOU 11 News Houston (@KHOU) February 14, 2016

“The pope comes to Mexico at a very ugly moment,” she said. “And he comes to pray for us and for all those who lost hope and have submerged the country in blood and violence.”

It’s abundantly clear that the people of Ecatepec desperately need the promise of love and peace the pope is bringing. Hopefully at least some of those responsible for the violent acts besieging the region will hear him, too, and aspire to squelch some of these deadly actions.