Pope
Francis met on Friday with two groups of people who work behind the
scenes in the Vatican – the “sediari” and the “gentiluomini” whose
tradition of service to the Holy See dates back many centuries. In his brief greeting to both groups and their families, the Pope thanked them for this continuing work which reflects an inner attitude and an important witness of joy in Christian service.
Noting how these members of staff are always on hand to welcome and accompany visitors to the Vatican, the Pope stressed the qualities of courtesy and kindness which are needed to make guests feel at ease.
These traits, he said, find their most authentic expression in a life rooted in faith, which bears witness to the Gospel values.