Italy's President Sergio Mattarella made a surprise visit to the Parco Verde area of Caivano on Sunday, January 7, where he attended Mass at the local parish led by anti-mafia priest Don Maurizio Patriciello. The visit not only highlighted Mattarella’s appreciation for community efforts but also marked the state's renewed commitment to areas affected by crime and poverty.
The President was accompanied by the Prefect of Naples, Michele di Bari, and received warm cheers from the congregation and local residents as he entered the church. This surprise attendance was part of his private visit to Naples, traditionally spent at the presidential residence, Villa Rosebery. The visit took place right before Mattarella's return to Sicily.
Mattarella expressed his gratitude to Don Patriciello for his service to the community and shared heartfelt wishes for the residents, particularly the children and youth. "I am here to thank you for this magnificent celebration and to extend my wishes to the community of Caivano, which is very important," he stated.
Don Patriciello, who has been outspoken about the challenges faced by the community due to issues like juvenile delinquency and Camorra mafia troubles, welcomed the President with deep appreciation. He remarked on the extraordinary nature of the visit, saying, "I didn’t expect it. Until some time ago, I would say the State is a distinguished gentleman but distant. Today I say the State is distinguished but no longer distant." His sentiments reflect the changing attitude of local leaders toward governmental support.
During his address, Mattarella emphasized, "My best wishes are not just for the year that's just begun but also for the future of our children and youth, who carry the hopes of our community. We all feel the need to provide them with futures filled with growth, prosperity, culture, and professional engagement." This focal point of his message underlines the need for societal commitment to the younger generation, especially within communities struggling against the backdrop of crime.
The visit was particularly timely, coming shortly after severe crime incidents linked to youth, including the gang rape of two cousins aged 10 and 12 last July, which shocked the nation. The government has since initiated urban regeneration programs aimed at restoring order and safety to Caivano and similar districts.
Don Patriciello, who previously invited the President to visit, lauded the surprise appearance as indicative of hope for the community. He said, "This spontaneous and beautiful initiative by Mattarella made today different; it brings the state closer to the people." He continued with optimism about future improvements, saying, "Something beautiful is happening here, and it gives us encouragement to continue."
After Mass, the President took photos with Don Patriciello and members of the congregation, capturing the moment of communal joy and hope. The atmosphere during the visit was filled with warmth, as many local residents had gathered to greet him, expressing their gratitude and support. This visit not only highlighted Mattarella’s connection with local issues but also the importance of state presence where it has been long needed.
Following the Mass, Mattarella was set to meet with the Mayor of Naples, Gaetano Manfredi, to discuss broader social concerns, ensuring the voice of Caivano would echo throughout local governance discussions. The Prefect of Naples stated, "This is a significant sign from the President, showing the state's presence and commitment to justice and legality."
Concluding his visit, Mattarella's remarks echoed throughout the community, emphasizing the need for unity and continued efforts to rebuild trust and safety. He declared, "It is important for the community to live by the laws and not under oppression; this should be the common goal for every young person and the entire community."
This surprise visit signifies not only the solidarity of the Italian state with vulnerable communities but also shines light on the persistent efforts needed to combat systemic issues prevalent within areas like Caivano. It serves as both reassurance and encouragement for the residents as they continue to face challenges unique to their environment, promising progress and hope for brighter futures.
With initiatives aiming to uplift such communities and through visits like these, the state is reaffirming its commitment to ensuring safety and viability for its citizens, especially the youth who are tomorrow's future. The message is clear: they are not alone, and their hopes for growth and positive change are echoed at the highest levels of government.