The Vatican has opened a homeless shelter that can host up to 34 men per night just a few steps away from St. Peter's Square, as the city continues its push to help the homeless.
The shelter, called Dono di Misericordia, or Gift of Mercy, is owned by the General House of the Jesuits and operated by Mother Teresa's Sisters of Charity religious order, reported ABC News. It was inaugurated Oct. 7 by the Pope's chief charity guru, Monsignor Konrad Krajewski, by celebrating mass for the first guests and volunteers.
The Dono di Misericordia, located between Santo Spirito Hospital and Church and St. Peter's Square, has very strict rules guests must abide by. First, before being allowed to enter and use the shelter, potential guests must be interviewed. After passing the interview process, guests need to enter between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., wake up at 6:15 a.m., and exit by 8 a.m., according to the United Press International.
Guests can get a meal at nearby shelter Casa Dono di Maria before entering the shelter and breakfast before leaving. They can also shower under the Colonnade of St. Peter's Square.
Krajewski's office released a statement Monday, saying all expenses are paid for by the proceeds of the papal parchments sold by the office, as well as general donations, according to Crux.
This is the latest papal initiative to help the less fortunate around the Vatican. Several months ago, Krajewski's office opened showers and a free barber shop for the homeless near St. Peter's Square.
