Rather than receiving cardinals and heads of state, Pope Francis met with prison inmates, war refugees and single mothers.
For years this group has been working for the foundation 'Casa dello spirito e delle arti', founded by this philosopher, writer and poet.
ARNOLDO MOSCA MONDADORI
'The center, the heart of our foundation, are people who come from situations of great difficulty, who live through the experience of prison, war and marginalization.'
This foundation gives work to dozens of people in prisons in various countries, including by hiring them to make hosts for Mass.
POPE FRANCIS
'You give a message that opposes the throwaway culture, which is unfortunately widespread. You try to build, with 'discarded stones,' a house where there is a climate of social friendship and fraternity.'
The Pope was able to hear some notes played from the 'Violin of the Sea,' made from the remains of the shipwrecked barges of migrants.
He also listened to one of their multi-cultural orchestras, a reminder that the power of music and art is stronger than any ethnic or social division.
JMB
TR: JM
