Pope Francis embarked on his first journey outside of Rome in seven months on Sunday, visiting Venice. The trip was filled with various activities, including an art exhibition, a visit to a prison, and the celebration of Mass.
Venice has forever remained a city of contrasts, where stunning beauty and delicate vulnerability coexist in harmony. Throughout the centuries, history, religion, art, and nature have intertwined to create a mesmerizing and ethereal gem. However, even in a city known for its unique experiences, Pope Francis’ visit on Sunday was truly exceptional.
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Francis made his way to the enchanting city of Venice with the purpose of visiting the Holy See’s pavilion at the Biennale contemporary art show and engaging with the individuals responsible for its creation. However, what made this project truly remarkable was the decision by the Vatican to showcase its exhibit within the confines of Venice’s women’s prison, allowing incarcerated women to collaborate alongside the artists. This unique collaboration took on a profound significance, reflecting Francis’ unwavering belief in the transformative power of art to inspire and bring people together, particularly in the context of providing hope and solidarity to society’s most marginalized individuals.
He started his journey at the courtyard of the Giudecca prison, where he individually met with female inmates.
“Surprisingly, being incarcerated can serve as a catalyst for a fresh start, as it allows individuals to unearth the hidden beauty within themselves and others. Pope Francis acknowledged this symbolic representation of artistic expression and the active participation of prisoners in such projects.”
The 87-year-old Pope then had a meeting with the artists of Biennale in the prison chapel. The chapel was adorned with a captivating installation by Brazilian visual artist Sonia Gomes, comprising of objects hanging from the ceiling. The intention behind this installation was to encourage the viewer to look upwards and contemplate.
The Giudecca prison, once a convent for reformed prostitutes, has been transformed into a captivating exhibition by the Vatican at this year’s Biennale. Despite the requirement of advanced reservations and a security check, it has become a popular destination for art enthusiasts. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by Maurizio Cattelan’s wall mural depicting two enormous dirty feet. This artwork evokes the image of Caravaggio’s grimy feet and the feet that Pope Francis traditionally washes during the Holy Thursday ritual performed on prisoners each year.
The exhibit features a captivating short film showcasing both the inmates and Zoe Saldana. Additionally, visitors can admire prints created by Corita Kent, a former Catholic nun turned American social activist, available for purchase in the prison coffee shop.
Francis, the 87-year-old pontiff, had a dizzying morning visit that culminated in Mass at St. Mark’s Square. This outing was an exceptional occurrence for him, as his health and mobility issues have prevented him from undertaking any foreign trips this year.
Pope Francis emphasized the significance of Venice as a hub for cultural exchange and interaction. He stated that Venice should serve as a symbol of accessible beauty for all. Additionally, the Pope highlighted the importance of prioritizing care for the environment and fostering a sense of fraternity, starting with those who are most marginalized.
While interacting with young individuals at the renowned Santa Maria della Salute basilica, Francis expressed his admiration for the captivating beauty of Venice and its longstanding tradition as a hub for East-West encounters. However, he also highlighted the growing threats posed by climate change and depopulation, emphasizing the city’s vulnerability.
“Venice has a deep connection with the waters that surround it,” Francis expressed. “If we do not prioritize the protection and preservation of this natural environment, there is a risk that Venice may eventually cease to exist.”
The exhibit features tour guides who also serve as protagonists in some of the artworks.
During an hourlong interview at the guest house where he resides in Rome, Pope Francis had a sit-down conversation with Norah O’Donnell, the anchor and managing editor of “CBS Evening News.”
In the interview, Francis passionately called for global peace in the midst of the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
The Pope, speaking through a translator, urged all countries at war to please stop the war and instead focus on negotiating and seeking peace.
He also had a message for people who no longer regard themselves as fitting into the Catholic Church.
“I believe there is always a place. “I understand if the priest in this church does not appear hospitable; nevertheless, search elsewhere; there is always a place,” he remarked. “Do not run away from the church. The church is fairly large. It’s more than a temple, and you shouldn’t run away from her.
According to Reuters, the pope’s trip to Venice was the first of four planned in Italy over the next three months. He plans to visit Verona in May and Trieste in July, as well as attend the G7 leaders’ summit in Bari in June.
In September, Francis will embark on his longest foreign journey as pope, visiting Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore.
