It was another one of his Friday works of mercy. The pope visited the Pope John XXIII Community house, where 20 women who were freed from the slavery of prostitution currently live.
They are from Romania, Albania, Nigeria, Tunisia, Italy and Ukraine. Many of them were carrying babies in their arms. For more than an hour they told the pope their terrible experiences, ranging from constant violence to death threats to them or their families. That's why at this home they are able to preserve their identities.
Pope Francis, deeply moved, asked forgiveness for all men who have caused them suffering.
'Today I apologize to all of you. For all Christians, Catholics, that abused you and forgiveness for me for not having prayed enough for you and for this slavery.'
Afterwards, he tenderly embraced and blessed them one-by-one.
When he left, there was a nice moment when neighbors came out the front door to see Pope Francis. They could not believe that the pope himself was in their building and they greeted him with enthusiastic emotion.
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