2013-07-01 16:07:46

Pope to visit Lampedusa in solidarity with immigrants


01 July, 2013 - Pope Francis will make a trip to the Italian island of Lampedusa in the Mediterranean sea on July 8, to pay homage to the migrants and refugees, mainly from Africa, who have drowned while trying to make it to Europe. Being closer to Africa than the Italian mainland, Lampedusa is the frequent destination migrants and refugees, mostly from Africa. The Vatican’s Press Office explained on Monday that the Pope was profoundly touched by the recent episode of a boat loaded with migrants from Africa that sank in the sea, the latest in series of similar tragedies. During the morning trip, the Pope will pray for those who have lost their lives in sea, visit the survivors and refugees, encourage the inhabitants of Lampedusa, and appeal to everyone’s sense of responsibility to care for these brothers and sisters in extreme need. Holy See’s spokesman, Fr. Federico Lombardi said the discreet and simple trip, lasting some 5 hours, will include a visit to a boat from where he will throw a wreathe into the sea in memory of the many migrants who have drowned. After meeting immigrants at Lampedusa port, the Pope will celebrate Mass in a sports field.








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