Watch: Pope Francis visits Focolare family in Loppiano

Pope Francis is due to arrive in Loppiano this morning. More than 6,000 people from all over Italy are waiting to welcome him, while thousands worldwide will be watching the event via live streaming.

Maria Voce, president of the Focolari explains: "We would like to present this small town to the Pope. There are 24 others in different parts of the world; this is the first one that has been set up and it aims at being a model of community life based on the principles of solidarity and fraternity. It is certainly unique, but its spirit can be exported and diffused".

"In Loppiano, the Pope will meet not only its 850 inhabitants but also representatives of the Focolare family in the world" - continues Maria Voce. "We will ask him questions on issues that are dear to us: the challenge of faithfulness to Chiara's charismatic idea when today's world conditions change; youth formation for a culture of fraternity; Loppiano's community life as a model that contributes towards promulgating the Christian message and overcoming barriers, nationalisms and prejudices".

The Focolare Movement is a very varied constellation that puts dialogue at the centre of its actions and a lifestyle that contributes towards building unity and peace in the world. There are more than two million people who share closely in the Movement's life and activities; many come from Christian Churches, but there are others profess different religious creeds or have convictions with no specific religious origin. There are about 1,000 social projects in different countries of the world, and 800 businesses that base their activities on the principles of the Economy of Communion. The Sophia University Institute, which is situated in Loppiano, has now been functioning for ten years.

The Programme of the Pope's visit

Arriving from Nomadelfia, the Holy Father will go directly to Maria Theotókos Sanctuary. There he will stop for a short prayer and also see the painting of the Madonna, work of a Hindu religious artist and symbol of dialogue, one of the pillars of community life at Loppiano.

When Pope Francis comes out of the Sanctuary, Maria Voce will greet him on behalf of the Focolare Movement in the presence of the crowd gathered in front of the Sanctuary. Then, some Loppiano citizens will be putting questions to the Holy Father. Musical pieces of composers from various countries and religious contexts will be played at some intervals during the dialogue with the Pope.

At the end, some 30 Loppiano citizens will greet the Pope personally. He will leave Loppiano after imparting his blessing.

Watch live streaming: http://live.focolare.org/live.asp

For more information see: www.focolare.org