"I am reminded of the year 1943, when millions of Jews and other Europeans suffered the horrors of the Holocaust. The eternal city was bombed during a two-hour attack. The Holy Father hurried from the Vatican to the streets of Rome. He stood in the midst of the terrorized people as buildings collapsed in piles of smoldering rubble and bombs exploded on all sides. The Romans ran toward him for guidance and strength. With hands and cassock smeared with the blood of the dead and the wounded, he blessed them. Then, Pope Pius XII consoled his flock and took care of the immediate needs of the victims. He was acclaimed Defensor Civitatis." - Sr. Margherita Marchione