Winter in Rome can be harsh, which is why the church of St. Callistus has adapted its functions. It's normally used as a place of worship, but during the winter, the Community of Sant'Egidio opens its doors to homeless people.
MASSIMILIANO SIGNIFREDI
Community of Sant'Egidio
'Instead of being out in the cold when the low temperatures make this time especially difficult, these people can sleep in the warmth. There are very comfortable beds, heaters, nightstands, and we have these wooden panels to separate the spaces. That way people can sleep in safety and in peace.”
There are currently 15 rooms. When people first arrive, they undergo a Covid-19 test, a body temperature check, and they are given face masks and basic essentials, including breakfast and dinner
MASSIMILIANO SIGNIFREDI
Community of Sant'Egidio
“Once, someone said to me, 'I thought I was in heaven because I looked up and saw a ceiling, like a king, and I slept beneath it.' This is the welcoming face of the Church.”
The Community of Sant'Egidio has set up similar shelters throughout Rome. It calls Italian institutions to better safeguard the lives of the homeless.
MASSIMILIANO SIGNIFREDI
Community of Sant'Egidio
“In Rome alone, nine people have died because of the cold since winter started. This is unacceptable. We're in the capital of a rich country. Sure, we're suffering because of the pandemic, but Covid-19 cannot be used to justify leaving the most fragile people out in the cold in a situation of extreme poverty.”
This is the fifth year the Community of Sant'Egidio spearheads the initiative in this 17th-century church, attached to one of the Vatican's administrative buildings. Volunteers work tirelessly and always put on a smile to warm the hearts of those who need it most.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
Translation: CT
