Pope Francis to build showers for homeless in St. Peter’s Square

[hrmjustin]

Josephine McKenna

VATICAN CITY (RNS) In his latest bid to ease the suffering of the poor — and upend the expectations of the papacy — Pope Francis plans to build showers for the homeless under the sweeping white colonnade of St. Peter’s Square.

Three showers are to be built into refurbished public restrooms provided for Catholic pilgrims along the marble columns leading into the historic basilica, which was completed in 1626.

The Vatican’s deputy spokesman, the Rev. Ciro Benedettini, said Thursday (Nov. 13) that the project was a joint initiative of the pope and Archbishop Konrad Krajewski, the papal almoner who distributes charity on the pope’s behalf. Construction is due to begin next week (Nov. 17).

http://www.religionnews.com/2014/11/13/pope-francis-build-showers-homeless-st-peters-square/

[liberal N proud]

1. All that will do is encourage the homeless to stay homeless

[hrmjustin]

2. I would not be suprised if we hear that from conservative corners.

[rug]

3. Bravo!

[okasha]

4. Bravo indeed!

But expect yelps of "PR stunt!" and POPE FRRRRAAAAA.NNNNK! from the Usual Suspects.

[goldent]

5. I see that the basilica which was completed in 1626

and construction on the showers starts next week. Is this how long it takes to get a variance on the original building permit?

[okasha]

6. LOL

Not even Italian bureaucracy is THAT bad.