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The World Prays for Migrants and Refugees

Sabina Castelfranco

   ROME - World Refugee Day is being observed Saturday with the aim of
   raising awareness of refugees throughout the world. In Italy, a special
   prayer vigil was held in Rome this week titled "Dying of Hope," in
   memory of the thousands who lose their lives at sea, on their journeys
   in search of a better life in Europe.

   Inside the Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere in Rome, many gathered
   to pray in memory of those who have drowned in their attempt to cross
   the Mediterranean from North Africa and for those who continue to do
   so. Africans and Italians maintained social distancing inside the
   church as they prayed together.

   The Secretary General of the Italian Bishops Conference, Monsignor
   Stefano Russo, addressed the congregation.

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