For the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, Pope Francis walked down the central aisle of St. Peter's Basilica to celebrate Mass.
It was for a special celebration for World Day of the Poor. Symbolically, the Pope carried a wooden pastoral staff.
In his homily he explained the significance of a day dedicated to the poor.
POPE FRANCIS
'The World Day of the Poor which we are celebrating asks us to not look away, to not be afraid to take a close look at the suffering of the most vulnerable.'
The Pope says that it is not always possible to solve humanity's greatest challenges, but that we can ensure those who suffer are not alone.
POPE FRANCIS
'We will not be able to do good without compassion. At most we will do good things, but they are not the Christian way because they do not touch the heart.'
He then explained that Christians are called to build of hope in the lives of others, and to show compassion even when surrounded by distractions.
POPE FRANCIS
'We are asked to nurture tomorrow’s hope by healing today’s pain. The two are linked: if you do not work to heal today’s pain, it will be hard to have hope for tomorrow.'
The ceremony was attended by some 2,000 people without resources cared for by Church institutions and volunteers who help them.
Before leaving, the Pope stopped to greet some of them who were near the altar.
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