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Pope Leo XIV visited the French Hospice, known in Türkiye as the House of the Little Sisters of the Poor, on Friday as part of his official trip to Istanbul, where he met with elderly residents and the nuns who care for them.
Continuing his program in Türkiye, the pope arrived at the facility, which houses and cares for nearly 60 elderly individuals who require medical attention and daily assistance.
He thanked the residents and staff for the warm and heartfelt welcome extended to him.
In his remarks, Pope Leo XIV warned that the word “elderly” risks losing its true meaning in a world increasingly dominated by productivity and material gain.
He said that respect for older generations is fading in such societies, stressing that elderly people remain “a treasure and source of wisdom” for their grandchildren, families and the wider community.
The pope also spent time with the six nuns serving at the hospice, speaking with them about their work and dedication before concluding his visit.
Extensive security measures were put in place around the hospice during the visit, as authorities ensured safe passage for the pontiff throughout his ongoing engagements in Istanbul.
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