During his pastoral visit to the northern Italian city of Milan today, March 25, 2017, Pope Francis arrived at the San Vittore prison around noon. He is the first pope to visit the prison since its foundation in 1879. Its 893 inmates have available to them two priests, one deacon, 10 sisters and four seminarians.
Every Sunday, four Masses are celebrated in the facility. The rosary is also recited there during the week.
On the occasion of Pope Francis’ visit, the prisoners had prepared themselves, above all, by sending the Pontiff letters, in which they described their situation, their feelings of guilt, their relationship to God, their faith, and their joy about the Pope’s visit.
Arriving at the prison, the Pope was received by various representatives, including its director and chaplain.
Once inside, the Pope greeted the 80 prisoners, and had lunch with the detainees. Afterwards, Pope Francis went to Monza Park, where he celebrated Mass at 3 pm.
All photos courtesy of L’Osservatore Romano – Photo.va
