Father Mattia Ferrari from the Vatican is traveling the country this summer, and he made a stop in Washington County. As Chaplain of the World Meeting of Popular Movements, Father Ferrari listens to people’s lived experiences and shares messages from Pope Leo XIV about justice and unity. On Saturday, during an event titled “An Economy That Kills,” faith, labor, and environmental leaders hosted a dialogue on the economy in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Sarah Martik, the Executive Director at Center for Coalfield Justice, says it is great that the church is trying to elevate stories of injustice while also bringing people together to take action. Leaders and audience members spoke about issues including food insecurity, having a low minimum wage in Pennsylvania, labor cuts, and environmental concerns. Donna Patrina, the President of the Washington/Greene County Central Labor Council says the community is blessed to have the Vatican hear the problems of Washington County. Father Ferrari explains that he was shocked to see the suffering of people throughout the United States, but he is moved by the solidarity of churches, organizations, and community members.