Pope Francis hosts lunch for 1,500 poor people

Source: Vatican Media

Pope Francis invited about 6,000 poor people as well as some volunteers who help them, to St Peter's Basilica for a special Mass to mark World Day of the Poor on Sunday.

Later during the Angelus he said: "the cry of the poor daily becomes stronger but heard less, drowned out by the din of the rich few, who grow ever fewer and more rich."

The Holy Father then went to the Paul VI Hall where he joined about 1,500 poor people and a group of volunteers for a special lunch.

Before the meal was served, the Pope thanked those who prepared the lunch and those who were serving and prayed for the Lord's blessing on all those present.

A youth band from the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompei provided musical accompaniment. The menu included lasagna, chicken, mashed potatoes with tiramisu for dessert.

This week doctors, nurses and other health workers ran a clinic from morning till night in St Peter's Square, offering medical assistance to the homeless and others in need.

Read Pope Francis full Message for World Day of the Poor here:
http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/poveri/documents/papa-francesco_20180613_messaggio-ii-giornatamondiale-poveri-2018.html