Rome, Italy - At the liturgy in memory of Modesta and all those who lost their lives due to the harshness of life on the street “Pope Francis’ hug”

Pope's chaplain, Mons. Konrad Krajewsky, celebrated on February 2nd a special liturgy in remembrance of Modesta and the poor that died on the streets. The mass was held in Santa Maria in Trastevere, where the Community of Sant’Egidio invited all the homeless people of Rome.

It’s now a long tradition. The memory begun 30 years ago after the death of a homeless elderly woman, Modesta Valenti, who died at Termini station and was not rescued because “was

dirty”. After her name a long list of other names were remembered. For each name, those who wanted lighted a candle. It meant a lot for all, especially for those who live without anything: to remember the names of their friends is also the certainty that he will not be forgotten.

At the beginning of the liturgy Mons. Krajewsky brought to the participants the greeting of Pope Francis himself: “This morning, before leaving home to come here with you, I greeted Pope Francis telling him that I would come to celebrate this mass. He listened to me and then said: I will not be able to be there, but tell everyone that I send them a strong, strong, strong hug!".

At the mass attended hundreds of poor people. For them, after the celebration, a great lunch was prepared in the venue of Santa Maria in Trastevere parish.