LOUTOLIM
We planned our trip to Vatican this year just to see and meet Pope Francis in the papal audience held on Wednesdays and so, when we heard of his passing, we were shocked and saddened by this news.
Just like many Catholics around the globe, we are deeply influenced by his compassion towards poor and vulnerable people.
Despite the sorrowful news, we travelled thinking we would still have a last chance to see him. So on April 24, we woke up at 5 am and walked to St Peter’s Basilica as we were staying close to it.
We waited in line till the gates opened at 7 am. It was a quick moving queue. Walking through the holy door, we were left with mixed emotions as we always wanted to visit the Vatican but experiencing this was both historic and sad.
We feel blessed to have witnessed him, pay our last respects to the Holy Father, and be a part of this solemn occasion. Pope Francis was the people’s Pope and a Pope of many firsts. He brought kindness, humility and humane nature back to our Catholic Church. This day will forever be etched in our hearts.
