Vatican City, Aug 17, 2016 / 10:27 am
As summer temperatures soar in Rome, a trip to the beach and pizza dinner may sound like an ideal way to spend an afternoon. And Pope Francis is making it happen for some of the city's homeless residents.
Archbishop Konrad Krajewski, who is in charge of papal charities, told Vatican Insider that a Vatican van takes about 10 people each day to go swimming on the Italian coast, 30 kilometers from Rome. About 100 people have participated so far.
The archbishop drives the van, while passengers sing and listen to the radio. At the beach, each guest is offered a swimsuit and towel.
Afterwards, they enjoy a meal at a local pizzeria, courtesy of Pope Francis.