After Vatican controversy, McDonald’s helps feed homeless in Rome
By Isla Binnie ROME (Reuters) – McDonald's received a lukewarm reception when it opened a new branch just steps from St. Peter&039;s Square last month, but on Monday the fast food giant accepted a challenge to adopt one of Pope Francis&039;s cherished principles – feeding the hungry. The new restaurant, whose opening in a Vatican-owned building on Dec. 30 upset some purists, donated dozens of meals on Monday to a charity which distributed them at a walk-in clinic in Rome. Pope Francis has made defense of the poor and needy a cornerstone of his papacy, setting up shower stalls for the homeless near the Vatican, offering meals and even a VIP-style visit to the Sistine Chapel.
