Rome, Italy, Nov 16, 2017 / 10:58 am
Pope Francis on Thursday made an unannounced visit to a small makeshift medical center in front of St. Peter's Square where poor and homeless people are receiving free treatment ahead of this weekend's World Day for the Poor.
According to Selene, a young volunteer present when the Pope arrived Nov. 16, "It was absolutely an unforgettable surprise for me, and for all the volunteers serving here," whom she said are all young Italians.
In comments to CNA, she said she has "no words" to describe the encounter, in which the Pope thanked them for their work, blessed them, and spent time talking with the poor and needy for about 20 minutes.
Pope Francis arrived to the center around 3:45p.m., where he was welcomed by a group of poor people waiting to be seen by specialists.