Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Before Pope Francis leads Mass on November 17 for the World Day of the Poor, he will bless 13 keys symbolizing new houses in Syria funded by him during the Holy Year 2025, according to a Vatican announcement. The Famvin Homeless Alliance, comprising religious orders and charities inspired by St. Vincent de Paul, noted that these keys also represent homes they plan to build in 13 countries: Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Central African Republic, Chile, Costa Rica, Italy, Tonga, Senegal, Syria, Tanzania, United Kingdom and Ukraine.

The "13 Houses Campaign" pays tribute to St. Vincent de Paul's initiative in 1643 when he used funds from French King Louis XIII to construct 13 small houses near the Vincentian headquarters in Paris for abandoned children.

Pope Francis initiated the World Day of the Poor in 2017. This event typically includes Mass and lunch with Pope Francis as well as expanded medical services for the poor at a clinic managed by the Dicastery for the Service of Charity.

The Mother of Mercy Clinic usually operates four mornings weekly but extends its hours from November 11-16 with assistance from volunteer medical professionals. Services offered include flu shots and other vaccines along with consultations across various specialties such as cardiology and dermatology.

After Mass on November 17, Pope Francis will dine with 1,300 individuals at the Vatican's Paul VI Audience Hall. The Italian Red Cross sponsors this year's meal while their national marching band provides entertainment. Each guest will receive a backpack containing food and hygiene items courtesy of the Vincentian Fathers.