Pope praises courage of women who have moved away from the mafia

By Lisa Zengarini

Pope Francis on Monday welcomed to the Vatican a group of Italian women who have decided to move away from their families involved in organized crime, and to join the “Libera” network against the mafia. They were accompanied by Fr. Luigi Ciotti, an Italian priest who founded the association in 1995.

The organisation promotes the use of land and assets seized from criminal outfits to set up local cooperatives, anti-drug projects and community centres, as well as seeking to provide employment for those side-lined by organised crime.

It includes associations, cooperatives, social organizations, schools, unions and churches which have joined in an effort to challenge the power of corruption and organized crime, while promoting social justice and human rights.

You are not alone

In his address, Pope Francis encouraged the group of women to persevere in their choice without fear, knowing that the Lord Jesus walks at their side. “You are not alone,” he said.

He recalled that among Jesus' disciples there were also some women, who, like men, were not perfect. “They were women tested by life, sometimes ‘infected’ by evil,” he said.

Jesus welcomed those women “with compassion and tenderness and healed them,” added the Pope. “With Him, they walked the path of liberation.”

Jesus walks with us every day on the road of life

Pope Francis, therefore, advised the group to always keep a small Gospel with them. “Every day read a passage, calmly, and imagine being with Him, among the disciples.”

Indeed, the Pope said, this is exactly what happens. “He walks with us every day on the road of life. His Cross gives meaning to our crosses, and His Resurrection is a source of hope.”

Concluding, Pope Francis thanked the group of women for their visit, and said he accompanies them with his prayers for them and their loved ones, especially their children.

“May the Lord bless you and Our Lady protect you," he prayed.

The "Libera" Association

“Libera” currently operates across Italy with a network of over 270 local associations.

Its international branch includes some 80 associations in 35 countries in Europe, Africa and South America.