Inside the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli (Holy Mary of the Angels), where St. Francis understood his vocation and renounced the world in order to live in poverty among the poor, Pope Francis listened to six testimonies, of people from Italy, France, Poland and Spain.
With the church that St. Francis repaired as a backdrop, he recounted one of the saint's teachings:
Roll up your sleeves
But Pope Francis' message was above all one of action. He urged society to do better with regard to the poor and those who are trampled upon in so many ways:
Open your doors
The Holy Father also urged a Christ-like ministry to the poor, in the footsteps of St. Francis.
1. Talk and pray
Let us not forget that the first marginalization the poor suffer from is spiritual marginalization. For example, many people and many young people find a bit of time to help the poor and bring them food and hot beverages. This is very good and I thank God for their generosity.
But I especially rejoice when I hear that these volunteers stop a bit and speak with the people, and sometimes pray together with them… So, even our being here at the Portiuncula, reminds us of the Lord’s company, that He never leaves us alone, he always accompanies us in every moment of our lives.
2. Open hearts
Noting how St. Francis welcomed Clare, his first brothers, and the poor, the Pope called for us to imitate him.
This is the most evangelical expression we are called to make our own: hospitality. Hospitality means to open the door, the door of our house and the door of our heart, and to allow the person who knocks to come in. And that they might feel welcome, not ashamed.
