The suffering of children is the hardest to accept

Pope Francis meets with children, families and staff of the Gaslini Pediatric Hospital during his visit to Genoa (Italy) last May.

"Istituto Giannina Gaslini" is considered one of the foremost children’s hospitals in Europe and is formally recognized as a Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare.

Many patients come from other Italian regions and from foreign Countries. Wards here are marked by multiculturalism, deeply appreciated by the Pope, for he is everyone’s Pope, of children in particular.

The reportage wants to capture:

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children and adults joyfully waiting for the Pope

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the good vibes preceding his arrival

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the multiculturalism (as said before)

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heightened security in the area around the hospital

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two different emotions the Pope exhibits via facial expressions: sadness and hope.

Sadness because “the suffering of children is the hardest to accept”. “Often and again I ask myself: 'Why do children suffer?', and I don't find any explanation,” the Pope says. “I only look at the crucifix and stand still there.”

Hope in thanking the hospital staff for the love and dedication they show towards their little patients and in encouraging them to continue to put their delicate service into practice as the ‘Good Samaritan’ did.