Like Émile's parents, Marie and Colomban, Philippe and Anne Vedovini trusted the columns of Famille Chrétienne to express their views. On Saturday, 23 September, they had the opportunity to attend Pope Francis' mass. Émile's grandfather said:
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It was a friend from Marseille, a fervent OM supporter, who told the vicar general, Father Xavier Manzano, about us. I still remember the day he came up to Haut-Vernet and asked us if we'd be interested in having tickets for the mass (...) It's funny, but everything went through this man of Muslim faith, who was aware of Marseille's Christian roots.
While the getaway gave the family a chance to clear their minds, they were also keen to share their feelings. Émile was at home when he mysteriously disappeared.
Emile's grandfather in turmoil
Since July 8, the day of the tragedy, life in Haut-Vernet has never been the same. Especially for Anne and Philippe. He said:
I'm bound to come across as a dominator who terrorizes everyone...
It's all false, but I don't care. The press gives us a hard time, but the people around us are really extraordinary! The proof that God exists is the kindness shown to us every day.
A sentiment shared by his partner, Anne.
It's very moving for us to continue to receive so many letters. You only have to open a few of them to have tears in your eyes (...) Émile's disappearance brings us closer to so many people.
Read more:Missing French toddler: Witness reveals he saw Émile's grandfather when the boy disappeared
Émile's grandparents worried about Marie and Colomban
Philippe, referring to the boy's parents, said:
Faced with such an ordeal, you're always afraid of a psychological or physical reaction.
It has to be said that, despite three months of searching, no lead has really enabled the investigators to make any progress. Émile's grandmother said:
Marie sometimes asks us how to spot the first signs of depression. If you can't stand your child's crying, if you overreact to your loved ones... We're all tense.
It's hard to cope. Sometimes it makes sparks fly. As a couple with Philippe, we're lucky enough to have several hours of flying under our belts.
For their part, the main people involved admit to relying on God, and hope for 'a miracle'.
Read more:Missing French toddler: One of Émile's neighbours' targeted by inhabitants 'I'm looked down on'
This article has been translated from Oh!MyMag FR.
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