Pope Francis inaugurates new Parish in San Giulio, Rome
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Pope Francis’ visit to the parish of San Giulio Papa, in the neighbourhood of Monteverde, was marked especially by his meetings with various groups of parishioners.
Vatican News reports that the choice of San Giulio was prompted in part by the completion of restoration work begun three years ago after the roof had collapsed. Speaking to those who undertook the work of renovation, Pope Francis said, “We must be attentive, in the parish community, so that the life of virtue, of the liturgical actions, of holiness, does not fall”. He voiced his appreciation for the work, saying, “Thank you to the firm that has rebuilt the church; thanks too to the spiritual work of the pastor who works to ensure that the church will be holy.”
Taking questions during his meeting with children and young people, Pope Francis was asked if he ever personally fed the poor. “Yes, several times”, he said, adding that feeding the poor in person is something “that all Christians must do”.
Pope Francis concluded his visit by celebrating the Sunday Mass for the parish. The high point of the liturgy came with the dedication of the new altar by the Pope, the completion of the long work of rebuilding.
Pope Francis spreads incense at the altar as he celebrates a mass to inaugurate the parish church of San Giulio in Rome, Italy
