Pope Leo XIV highlights the work of those who make the world see “from the street”

Pope Leo XIV thanked on Saturday the work that has been carrying out “L’Osservatore di Strada” for three years, the magazine that is distributed once a month in the Plaza de San Pedro with the subtitle of “The newspaper of social friendship and fraternity”.

“His work is important because it helps us to remember that the world must also be seen from the street, with the courage to change perspective, breaking the patterns and conventions that often prevent us from seeing and listening true and deeply listening to the voice of those who do not have it,” said the pontiff in a message to those responsible for this medium that came out for the first time on June 29, 2022.

“You are the ones who, talented, contribute to the creation of this unique newspaper, and it is always you who distribute it for free, every Sunday, among the pilgrims present in the square, thus accompanying the Pope with his discreet presence, before and after the moment of the angelus prayer,” he added.

In that sense, Leo XIV invited them to continue advancing together, “with confidence, to continue taking the city of men, also moments of the city of God.”

“May the Lord always be with you, our beloved brothers and sisters. And that we always recognize it in you. The hand of God in your stories, the most lively testimony of how everything is redeemed and how no story lacks hope if we believe in the love of God,” he said.

The Pontiff culminated his brief message citing San Agustín, who wrote in one of his sermons: “Blessed are those that sympathize with others, because they will receive compassion.”

“His compassion and humility,” said León XIV, “are a beautiful gift for all of us. His hope, even in difficulty, is an example for the Church and for the world. Thank you.”

“L’Osservatore di Strada” is distributed by some guests of the Palazzo Migliori, the structure confident by the Dicasterio for Charity to the community of Sant’Egidio to give a roof to those who need it, with the help of volunteers.

A newspaper that wants to be above all “with” the poor, created with them. On the cover, a “street editorial” presents the theme of the month, which is then developed in the article; In the central pages, the reflection on the issue of the edition is guided by the Pope.

Likewise, two whole pages are dedicated to “Songs of the Suburbs”, an article presents the experience of other street newspapers published in Italy and throughout the world and, finally, “the other cover”, with two readings, one in spiritual code and another humorous, of the theme of the edition.

Translated and adapted by the ACI Press team. Originally published in ACI Print.