Students and teachers from John XXIII College, Claremont, have this week presented a gift to Pope Francis at a General Audience. Photo: Sourced
Students and teachers from John XXIII College, Claremont, have this week presented a gift to Pope Francis at a General Audience.
International TV News agency Rome Reports this week published the story, noting that for many of the students, it was their first audience with the Pope.
The students, who are studying Italian, presented the Holy Father with a photograph of a bronze statue of the patron of their college, St John XXIII, at the end of the audience.
The students said that being a Catholic college, they had to attend a General Audience with him.
Teacher Carmelina Galante Grassi said she believes what he (Pope Francis) says comes from the heart.
“It was really nice, really exciting, down to earth and beautiful.”
Ms Galante Grassi went on to say that hopefully he’ll like it.
“[We just wanted] to say, ‘Yes, we are Catholics on the other side of the world and we really like Pope Francis.’
“Our school is named after a saint now – so it’s wonderful!”
The students were able to practice their Italian while listening to the Pope during the audience and had a message for him in addition to the gift they brought.
“Viva Francesco, Viva Francesco, Viva Francesco!”
Courtesy Rome Reports.