Pope makes impromptu visit to convents near Rome

Pope Francis visited two convents of religious sisters in Italy on Tuesday.

Vatican Radio reported that the Pope met privately with sisters at the convent of the Reparation of the Holy Face situated in the province of Rieti, north of Rome. The pontiff then went on to visit the Franciscan sisters at the monastery of Saint Filppa Mareri in Borgo San Pietro.

The Pope was joined on these spontaneous visits by Bishop Domenico Pompili of Rieti and by the bishop’s assistant, Sister Angela Severino.

A local newspaper, writing about the visit to Carsoli, said Pope Francis greeted each of the sisters before heading to their chapel to pray with them and Bishop Pompili. After the prayers, the Pope and bishop went for a walk around the wooded, park-like property, returning for lunch at noon sharp.