Archbishop Luis Marín de San Martín recently spoke to Vatican News about his first two months as the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, a period marked by both profound responsibility and heartfelt joy.
Located near the Vatican's Sant'Anna Gate, the Apostolic Almonry buzzes with activity, welcoming a steady stream of visitors seeking assistance. The courtyard, adorned with flowers and the sculpture 'Homeless Jesus' by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, serves as a poignant reminder of the mission at hand. From Monday to Saturday, deacons at the Almonry receive requests, particularly during May, a month when many commemorate significant life events and seek apostolic blessings.
Reflecting on his appointment by Pope Leo on March 12, Archbishop San Martín expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him, emphasizing his desire to serve the poorest among us. He recalled his initial emotional response, characterized by joy as this role aligns him closely with the Gospel and charitable actions.
The Apostolic Almonry has often been likened to an “emergency room of charity,” a description that highlights the broad scope of the Dicastery’s work, which expanded under the new apostolic constitution, Praedicate Evangelium. The Dicastery now encompasses various initiatives, including medical services provided by volunteer doctors in clinics situated in St. Peter's Square for individuals often lacking documentation and basic healthcare. Hygiene services, meal offerings, and accommodation are also part of the mission, reinforcing a commitment to assisting those in need.
Archbishop San Martín underscored the variety of challenges that accompany this role, noting the necessity of actively listening to the marginalized, whose needs shape the charity's mission. He acknowledged the importance of collaboration with local parishes and community organizations to address essential needs such as food and medical assistance, particularly for those living in the outskirts of Rome.
Papal teachings continue to inform the work of the Dicastery, particularly Pope Leo’s exhortation, Dilexi Te, which stresses that faith cannot be separated from love for the poor. Archbishop San Martín asserted that charity must remain at the heart of Christian life, aligning with his own episcopal motto, “Deus caritas est.” He conveyed a profound belief that through serving the poor, one can encounter Christ, emphasizing the very essence of Christian faith.
He called on the faithful to offer prayers supporting the continuing work of the Dicastery, highlighting the vital and extraordinary mission of charity.
