The pope visited Rome's Capitoline Hill. It is in the heart of the city and where the mayor manages all the government's tasks for one of the largest cities in all of Europe.
During his visit, Mayor Virginia Raggi showed Pope Francis the city's hall facilities.
First, she introduced him to her family.
“How is school going? Good?”
They then went to her office balcony. While there, they both admired the majestic view of the Roman forum. In the past, it was the center of imperial Rome.
After their private meeting, the pope greeted the local officials and met more of them later in the Julius Caesar assembly hall.
VIRGINIA RAGGI
Mayor of Rome
“For me, it is an honor to receive you here at Capitoline Hill. It is with deep and sincere appreciation that I welcome you to this chamber, on behalf of all the citizens of Rome.”
POPE FRANCIS
“Rome is a city of bridges, never of walls. Do not be afraid to live with kindness and charity! These qualities are creative values that generate a peaceful society. They are capable of multiplying its forces, and facing problems with seriousness and less anxiety. They bring with it a greater dignity and respect for each person, and an openness to new opportunities for development.”
After greeting some citizens, Pope Francis looked out on to the square designed by Michelangelo. He could also see the carpet of flowers that had been prepared for him. Although it was raining in Rome, the pope did not want to use his umbrella.
POPE FRANCIS
“I would like to ask each of you, according to your capabilities, to take care of one another, to be close to each other and to respect each other.”
Pope Francis also met with the administrative staff of the city. They are public and civil servants as well as those who clean the city hall.
POPE FRANCIS
“Your silent and faithful work contributes, not only to the improvement of the city, but also very personally to you all. It is through the way we work that we expresses our dignity and the kind of people we are.”
It was a short and very cordial visit lasting two hours. As a sign of respect, the mayor named one of the rooms after the pope's encyclical Laudato si'. The Roman government will also be awarding two scholarships to students who intend to study how to build peaceful relationships.
