Daniel del Castillo González
Don Orione laid the first stone of this center in 1935. Today, more than 400 people with disabilities live here, receiving round-the-clock care from teams of professionals, religious members and volunteers.
The center has schools, art workshops, rehabilitation facilities and activities designed to help residents develop greater independence. Marta Torres spent years searching for a place like this she could call home.
MARTA TORRES
I was born with a disability. My mother abandoned me the day before my birthday.
Through several personal testimonies, the pope heard the stories of people whose lives have been shaped by illness and difficult family circumstances.
But also how they found a new family here.
POPE LEO XIV
The values of dignity, inclusion and brotherly friendship that define places like this have a great deal to teach our societies, which are often driven solely by the pursuit of economic success or the worship of physical appearance.
Leo XIV drew on three places from the life of Jesus in his reflection: Bethlehem, Nazareth and Bethany. Each offers an example of inclusion and friendship. Together, they point to a way of building communities where everyone belongs.
POPE LEO XIV
Today, I want to affirm that your lives are not a burden to society. They are a blessing, because you can help us remember the foundation of every human being's dignity and what truly matters in life.
It is a mission at the heart of the Cottolengo: making sure no one has to search for a place where they feel loved and valued.
