The 'Giacinto Blasoni' Residence in Risano had taken the time: on 6 November, it had sent a beautiful letter of best wishes for Happy Holidays to His Holiness Pope Francis in person, signed by all the guests.

In the letter, the elderly tell the Pope about their life in the facility: from Holy Masses and Rosaries, led by Deacon Don Lelio, to the fun times they experience, including parties, music, dancing and many other initiatives. They could not miss a prayer for the Pope's health and for the people around the world who suffer from hunger and disasters, disease and wars. 

For more than a month, the elderly waited for a reply, wondering whether their letter would ever reach such an illustrious recipient. Two days before Christmas, the postmistress delivered a letter with a sender from the Vatican: Pope Francis reciprocates with festive wishes and spiritual closeness. In the letter he also imparts a blessing to the residence and all those who work there.

"It is a great honour to receive the good wishes of Pope Francis. Our seniors counted on it so much. They share and we share the values of peace and brotherly love, inclusion and care for the weakest, which Pope Bergoglio follows and professes every day," says residence director Orietta Mauro.