Pope meets families who lost children to toxic waste in Italy’s ‘Land of Fires’
Pope Leo XIV visited families in Acerra, Italy, who have lost children due to toxic waste pollution linked to mafia activities. During his visit, he expressed solidarity with the grieving families and emphasized the need for justice and environmental protection. The pope's presence highlighted ongoing health issues in the region, where illegal dumping has led to increased cancer rates among residents.
- ▪Pope Leo XIV met with families affected by toxic waste in the Land of Fires near Naples.
- ▪The area has seen a significant rise in cancer rates due to illegal dumping by the mafia.
- ▪Local bishop Antonio Di Donna reported that approximately 150 young people have died from related illnesses in the past three decades.
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Pope Leo XIV, behind boy holding framed photograph, during a visit to Acerra in Italy. Photograph: Ciro De Luca/ReutersView image in fullscreenPope Leo XIV, behind boy holding framed photograph, during a visit to Acerra in Italy. Photograph: Ciro De Luca/ReutersItalyPope meets families who lost children to toxic waste in Italy’s ‘Land of Fires’Pastoral visit took in conversations with affected residents of polluted area around Naples seeking justiceAssociated Press in AcerraSat 23 May 2026 06.11 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GooglePope Leo XIV has greeted families who lost loved ones to illegal toxic dumping in an area near Naples, as many paused to share photographs and other mementos of children and young people who have died or are battling cancer – illnesses tied to a multi-billion…
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