Pope Francis Entreats Mobsters to Repent, or end up in Hell

Rome, 22 March 2014: Pope Francis has warned mobsters they will go to Hell if they don't repent and renounce their "blood-stained money and blood-stained power." The Pontiff delivered the forceful, off-the-cuff speech at prayer vigil for the victims of mafia violence and for the families of victims held on Friday evening in a Roman parish dedicated to Pope St. Gregory VII. During the vigil organized by the Libera Foundation, the names of 842 victims were read aloud.

After sharing his empathy, sympathy and solidarity with the families of mafia victims and lauding them for their courage to share their suffering with others and their hope that corruption will be overcome, he addressed stern words to the men and women currently engaged in mafia activities.

Pope Francis said he couldn't leave the service without speaking to those not present: the "protagonists" of mafia violence. He said "this life that you live now won't give you pleasure. It won't give you joy or happiness."

The pope went on to say that "blood-stained money, blood-stained power, you can't bring it with you to your next life. Repent. There's still time not to end up in Hell, which is what awaits you if you continue on this path. You have a father and a mother. Think of them. Cry a little and convert yourselves", concluded Pope Francis.

Earlier, the president of “Libera” foundation, Luigi Ciotti, told Vatican Radio that the Holy Father did not hesitate to accept his invitation to pray, reflect, remember the victims and comfort their families. “It is,” he said, “a sign of great attention, great sensitivity,” on the part of Pope Francis.

The “Libera” foundation was born in the Spring of 1995, with the purpose of involving civil society in the fight against organized crime and promoting both justice and the rule of law. “Libera” at present represents a co-ordination of over 1600 organizations, including parish and civic groups, schools and grassroots efforts.
Source: Varie