ROME -- Hundreds of homeless people gathered in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere Sunday in memory of Modesta Valenti, the woman who died at Termini station 34 years ago because the ambulance refused to take her to hospital due to being ‘dirty,’ as well as many others who have died on the streets of the Italian capital.

 The names of the homeless who have lost their lives in the past year were read out to the congregation by volunteers and friends of the Rome-based religious community of Sant’Egidio.

 In January, during the days of extreme cold, the Sant’Egidio community launched an initiative against ‘indifference,’ urging hundreds of people to donate blankets, shoes, scarves and other garments to the homeless. Many also signed up to become volunteers.

 The Santa Maria celebration on Sunday is the first of many which will take place in coming weeks throughout numerous Italian cities, remembering those who have passed away as well as encouraging solidarity and urging people to take action.

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