Providence Row welcomes visit by the Pope's Nuncio

His Excellency, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía (the Pope’s Nuncio and primary representative in Great Britain) visited Providence Row on Tuesday 20th February 2024 and was welcomed by the charity’s CEO, Tom O’Connor, and various members of staff.

It was an opportunity for His Excellency to learn more about the various services the charity provides to people affected by homelessness in London and to view its Day Centre and award-winning rooftop garden. 

His Excellency wanted to visit Providence Row to learn about the innovative services on offer to some of the most disadvantaged people in London and to underline the centrality of real charity at the heart of the Catholic faith.

"The Gospel we preach", he said "is addressed to everybody, as it is the loving care with which we receive all who are in need, regardless of his origin or faith. It's important not to neglect this aspect." 

Commenting on the visit Tom O’Connor, Providence Row CEO, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Nuncio at Providence Row and it was a privilege to introduce him to the work we do in support of some of the most vulnerable people in society. Our charity has a strong Catholic heritage that inspires our work and reminds us of the profound dignity of those we serve.”

Providence Row was founded in 1860 as a Catholic charity by Father Daniel Gilbert, who was moved by the poverty he saw around him. He enlisted the support of the Sisters of Mercy, and together they established life-saving services for the most vulnerable people in London. 

Over the last 164 years the charity has continued to value its Catholic roots and links with the church.