Pope Francis meets with disability group from Toledo

Pope Francis met with members of the Provincial Federation of Entities for People with Intellectual Disabilities and Cerebral Palsy of Toledo (Marsodeto) and their families at the Vatican on Monday. The group is in Rome for a pilgrimage organized by the federation.

During the audience, the pontiff emphasized the value of the social work carried out by the Toledo-based organization. He praised their ongoing commitment to inclusion, the defense of human dignity, and their steadfast support for families. "To recognize, in the lives of the weakest and most vulnerable, the gaze of Christ that challenges us, is something that makes us grow as a human and Christian society," Pope Francis told the attendees in the Apostolic Palace.

The Pope commended the federation's values in addressing the realities of people with intellectual disabilities and cerebral palsy. He specifically cited solidarity, the defense of human dignity, and full inclusion as key principles. Pope Francis also expressed gratitude for the inspiration provided by Father Marcelino Casas Puente, honorary president of Marsodeto and one of the association's founders.

Father Casas Puente initiated the organization over four decades ago, turning what seemed like a distant dream into a tangible reality: ensuring that no family with an intellectually disabled member would be left without support. The federation's work continues to embody this mission, offering assistance and advocacy for individuals and their families.

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To recognize, in the lives of the weakest and most vulnerable, the gaze of Christ that challenges us, is something that makes us grow as a human and Christian society.