In July 2013, Pope Francis made his first papal trip, to Italian town of Lampedusa. There, he began his mission against a “culture of indifference” by paying homage to refugees who had drowned and hearing the stories of survivors.
Now, the Holy Father will celebrate Mass in honor of migrants on the fifth anniversary of his memorable visit. The ceremony will take place on July 6 at 11 a.m. in St. Peter's Basilica.
The gathering will be a time of prayer for the dead, survivors and those who assist them. Around 200 people are expected to attend, including refugees and aid workers.
The pope had previously presided over Mass with migrants on World Day of Migrants and Refugees in January. This year, the day will be celebrated in September.
