For the last few months I have been participating in a project called “Chaire Gynai”, a Greek expression whose meaning in English is “Welcome to Women”.
This project was inspired by Pope Francis to welcome refugee women who have children -- or to women who are going through a difficult and vulnerable time in their lives. The Association called “Scalabriniane with the Migrants” (with collaboration and support from several Congregations of religious women in Rome) is in charge of it.

The project includes two houses that are open to women who already have obtained recognition of their status as refugees from the Italian State as well as women who are waiting for that official recognition. Nineteen women and 7 children from Syria, Uganda, Senegal, Congo, Cameroon, Ethiopia, India, Burundi and Philippines are now living in these two houses.

I had the privilege of meeting these women and children, living their daily life with them and, together with the Sisters of other Congregations, helping them along their path towards autonomy through studying Italian, getting a driver’s license, researching a job, finding a house, or filling out the required documents.

I am very grateful to God for this opportunity to serve and yet I can assure you that the gift is mutual. I am present in both houses daily, and I have a chance to learn more about the women who live there. They treat me as a sister: a person who walks with them and beside them. It is always a joy when a child welcomes me, running toward me and holding me tight. Or when I am welcomed with a coffee and a special Syrian or Senegalese breakfast.

Sharing food is the best way to create a homelike atmosphere -- like in a family. I tasted and taste simple food, made with love and it is delicious. It also helps the women and children to learn Italian, because I ask for every recipe to be translated into Italian. In these informal moments, I also learn their stories which include wars, decisions to leave their homeland, and nostalgia for the people left behind.

Last June 1st we celebrated the anniversary of the project. We set up some stands where we presented the things we shared in the project, and some friends offered a show with music. As we prepared for celebration, many women brought something from their country to sell. I was touched from their generosity. There was no competition among them, and everything we had left was shared equally.

I can actually feel the words of Mother Frances: “I recognized my Divine Savior in the poor and suffering as though I had seen God in them with my own eyes.” These words clearly express our healing charism, and put me in harmony with the women and their children, a fragile part of humanity that God has entrusted to us.

Sr. Loredana Giuliano, sfp

Published: September 3, 2019