Pope Leo XIV responds to 'family in the woods' custody case

Pope Leo XIV has responded to a letter from Catherine and Nathan, the parents involved in the controversial “family in the woods” case. In a brief message, the Pontiff stated he had noted the contents of their letter and assured them he would remember the family in his prayers.

The parents, who have been separated from their three children since November 2023, had requested the Pope’s interest in their situation. In their correspondence, they invoked the principle of the inalienable right of parents to choose their children's education and upbringing.

The legal dispute began following a medical emergency involving mushroom poisoning, which led health and social services to inspect the family's living conditions. Authorities cited a lack of traditional electricity and running water as reasons for the temporary removal of the children by the Aquila Juvenile Court. While the parents have since secured a new home with improved living conditions and schooling access, the children remain in a reception facility in the Vasto area. The family recently presented an autobiographical book, ‘My Truth’, in Valle dell’Angelo to share their perspective on the struggle between child protection and family lifestyle autonomy.