- Feb 5, 2002
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There was euphoria in the air, but a sense of something deeper, too. Something more profound. A joy, a sense of goodness, a shared love of something eternal.
No matter how many times you’ve entered the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican in Rome, you’re always filled with a sense of nervous excitement, especially if you’re about to meet the Holy Father.
On Saturday morning, my wife Paola and I walked through the stunning hallways, surrounded by centuries-old art, led by the Swiss Guard and members of the Dicastery for Evangelization. Because Paola, who is a reporter for EWTN Noticias, was presenting a special segment on stage later that day in front of 1 million young people as part of the Jubilee of Youth, we had been invited for a short meeting with Pope Leo XIV.
Filled with anticipation, excitement and, naturally, a few nerves, we were led into the stunning Sala Clementina (Clementine Room) in the Apostolic Palace. This room is exquisite, housing some of the most breathtaking Renaissance frescoes and tapestries in the Vatican. As we waited for the Pope to enter, we looked around in awe at the intricate ceiling panels, the gilded walls, and the artwork surrounding us: a reminder of centuries of history, tradition and faith.
The head of protocol entered first, followed by more members of the Swiss Guard. And then there he was: Pope Leo XIV.
Continued below.
www.ncregister.com
No matter how many times you’ve entered the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican in Rome, you’re always filled with a sense of nervous excitement, especially if you’re about to meet the Holy Father.
On Saturday morning, my wife Paola and I walked through the stunning hallways, surrounded by centuries-old art, led by the Swiss Guard and members of the Dicastery for Evangelization. Because Paola, who is a reporter for EWTN Noticias, was presenting a special segment on stage later that day in front of 1 million young people as part of the Jubilee of Youth, we had been invited for a short meeting with Pope Leo XIV.
Filled with anticipation, excitement and, naturally, a few nerves, we were led into the stunning Sala Clementina (Clementine Room) in the Apostolic Palace. This room is exquisite, housing some of the most breathtaking Renaissance frescoes and tapestries in the Vatican. As we waited for the Pope to enter, we looked around in awe at the intricate ceiling panels, the gilded walls, and the artwork surrounding us: a reminder of centuries of history, tradition and faith.
The head of protocol entered first, followed by more members of the Swiss Guard. And then there he was: Pope Leo XIV.
Continued below.

My Unforgettable Meeting With Pope Leo XIV — and the Faith of 1 Million Youth
There was euphoria in the air, but a sense of something deeper, too. Something more profound. A joy, a sense of goodness, a shared love of something eternal.