(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 07.04.2024).- On Tuesday afternoon, July 2, Pope Francis welcomed a group of migrants to Casa Santa Marta, continuing his tradition of personal encounters aimed at fostering hope and humanity. Although such meetings are not new for the pontiff, each one holds unique significance.
Among the attendees were two notable young men: Ibrahim Lo from Senegal and Ebrima Kuyateh from Gambia. Both had endured arduous journeys through Libya to reach Europe. Ibrahim is the author of two books, «Bread and Water: From Senegal to Italy via Libya» and «My Voice: From the Shores of Africa to the Streets of Europe.» Ebrima documented his own trek in «I, My Bare Feet,» which features a foreword by Archbishop Erio Castellucci of Modena-Nonantola and an afterword by Stefano Croci, the director of Migrantes.
The meeting was orchestrated by Father Mattia Ferrari, who described Pope Francis as a «father» and «shepherd of all.» The group also included Stefano Croci, Giulia Bassoli, a volunteer with Migrantes Carpi, Luca Casarini, founder and leader of the Mediterranean Saving Humans mission, and Sister Adriana Dominici, a consecrated member of Spin Time Labs in Rome.
Pope Francis listened intently to the migrants’ stories, expressing gratitude for their perseverance and resilience. Among the tales shared was that of Pato, who had previously met the Pope in November 2023. Pato’s harrowing account of losing his wife Fati and daughter Marie to thirst while crossing the desert deeply moved everyone present.
Despite the unimaginable hardships many migrants have faced, these gatherings are also rich with stories of hope. Father Mattia emphasized that the welcome and rescue these young people have received stand as powerful testimonies. «When we rescue or welcome the poor and migrants, it is they who are saving us,» he said, highlighting the salvation found in shared love and fraternity with the most vulnerable.
Pope Francis encouraged the migrants to continue their journeys with courage, underscoring the importance of their stories and their bravery.
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