OFFICIAL VISIT OF THE HOLY FATHER
TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ITALY
H.E. MR GIORGIO NAPOLITANO

ADDRESS OF POPE FRANCIS
TO THE EMPLOYEES OF THE QUIRINAL PALACE

Quirinal Palace - Rome
Thursday, 14 November 2013

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I am very grateful to you, Mr President, for the opportunity of this friendly and informal meeting. The family is always present in the background of public service: there are children, grandchildren. I like meeting with children very much; you are very important! And children, too, who carry out your service in the first Italian institutional position; I offer you my heartfelt greetings and I am very pleased to meet you. My wish for you is that you always live in harmony with those who are close to you, in the family and in every area of your daily life.

Through your work, which is often times hidden and yet so very valuable, you come in contact with the various ordinary and extraordinary events that mark the journey of a nation. Some of you have the opportunity to engage in the various social, familial and personal problems that citizens confidently address to the President of the Republic. My wish for you is that you will always have an open spirit and understanding for everyone. There is such great need for people like you, who commit themselves with professionalism and also with a keen sense of humanity and understanding, with true attention especially to those who are weak. I encourage you not to lose this spirit amid difficulties, and to be ready to support one another.

I will pray for you, I assure you of my prayers, but I ask you to pray for me, I need them very much. Thank you!