During his first trip out of Rome in seven months, Pope Francis visited Venice on Sunday, embarking on a journey that included an art exhibition, a stop at a prison, and a Mass.
Known for its contrasts of beauty and fragility, Venice has been a city where history, religion, art, and nature converge to create a unique and magical environment. However, Francis' visit on Sunday was particularly remarkable even for this extraordinary city.
Francis's visit to Venice was to see the Holy See's pavilion at the Biennale contemporary art show and to meet with the creators. The Vatican's decision to host the exhibit in Venice's women's prison, and to involve inmates in the collaboration with the artists, added a deeper layer of significance to the project. This move resonated with Francis's belief in the ability of art to inspire and bring people together, as well as his commitment to offering hope and solidarity to those on the fringes of society.
The Pope's journey commenced at the courtyard of the Giudecca prison, where he personally interacted with the women inmates.
"A New Beginning"
During a recent visit to a prison, Pope Francis spoke about how a stay behind bars can lead to new beginnings and the rediscovery of beauty in oneself and others. He praised an artistic event hosted at the prison and commended the inmates for actively contributing to the project.
Following his address, the 87-year-old pontiff met with Biennale artists in the prison chapel, which was adorned with an installation by Brazilian artist Sonia Gomes. The installation featured objects hanging from the ceiling, inviting viewers to look upwards.
The Vatican exhibit at the Giudecca prison, once a convent for reformed prostitutes, has become a highlight of the Biennale. Visitors must reserve in advance and pass through a security check to view the art. The entrance features a wall mural by Maurizio Cattelan depicting two giant filthy feet, reminiscent of Caravaggio's work or the feet washed by Francis in a Holy Thursday ritual with prisoners.
Additionally, the exhibit includes a short film starring inmates and Zoe Saldana, as well as prints by former nun and activist Corita Kent in the prison coffee shop.
Pope Francis' visit culminated in a Mass at St. Mark's Square, marking a rare outing for the pontiff due to health and mobility issues that have prevented foreign trips this year.
"Venice, which has always been a place of encounter and cultural exchange, is called to be a sign of beauty available to all," Francis said. "Starting with the least, a sign of fraternity and care for our common home."
During an encounter with young people at the iconic Santa Maria della Salute basilica, Francis acknowledged the miracle that is Venice, admiring its "enchanting beauty" and tradition as a place of East-West encounter, but warning that it is increasingly vulnerable to climate change and depopulation.
"Venice is at one with the waters upon which it sits," Francis said. "Without the care and safeguarding of this natural environment, it might even cease to exist."
in the exhibit as tour guides and as protagonists in some of the artworks.
Ahead of his trip, Francis sat down with "CBS Evening News" anchor and managing editor Norah O'Donnell during an hourlong interview at the guest house where he lives in Rome.
During the interview, Francis pleaded for peace worldwide amid the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
"Please. Countries at war, all of them, stop the war. Look to negotiate. Look for peace," said the pope, speaking through a translator.
He also had a message for those who do not see a place for themselves in the Catholic Church anymore.
"There is always a place, always. If in this parish the priest doesn't seem welcoming, I understand, but go and look elsewhere, there is always a place," he said. "Do not run away from the Church. The Church is very big. It's more than a temple ... you shouldn't run away from her."
In September, he is also set to embark on the longest foreign trip of his papacy, traveling to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and Singapore.
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An extended version of the interview with Pope Francis will air on "60 Minutes" on Sunday, May 19 at 7 p.m. ET. On Monday, May 20, a primetime special dedicated to the papal interview will be broadcast at 10 p.m. ET on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+. Additionally, CBS News and Stations will carry the interview across platforms.
