"I’m a fighter, and while like most of you I’ve known despair and abandonment in this world, which has become more and more pitiless, my crossing of the desert has been for me the occasion to realize—after a blow, of course—the love of God!”
His profound words have resonated with thousands of people online.
These words of Gabriel Barbier resounded strongly November 12, 2021, in the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi, Italy. No one would have thought in his youth that Barbier, raised an atheist, would end up saying such things, much less in public, and in front of Pope Francis!
Yet, Barbier was invited to testify in front of the pope and 500 poor people present for the World Day of the Poor. He shared his story, unvarnished and straightforward, with a disarming sincerity. He addressed the pope directly and mentioned the Fratello (“Brother”) organization, which promotes the annual event. His simple words have had a profound resonance with thousands of people since then over the internet.
Here is his testimony:
Vatican Media/CPP
FILIPPO MONTEFORTE / AFP
