Homeless people had VIP seats at a special Mass Sunday in St. Peter’s Basilica, where Pope Francis stressed the need to avoid exclusionary views that reject those in need.
Francis had invited homeless and impoverished people to one of his last Masses during the Holy Year of Mercy he established to stress that virtue. The Holy Year ends on Nov. 20.
In his homily, Francis said God and neighbor are the most valuable riches in life.
Along with cardinals and other prelates dressed in impeccably pressed, bright green vestments, homeless people sat near the ornate central altar. Some of the homeless sported straggly beards or torn and stained clothing. One man’s large tattoo on his scalp was evident when he bowed his head in prayer, a sharp contrast to the often prim attire and well-groomed aspect of faithful near the altar.
