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Pope Francis' ministry as Pontiff has left a lasting legacy with people of all faiths and none. In 2023, Diocesan Trustee and Weybridge parishioner, Clare Wordsworth, met the Holy Father during a conference organised in Rome by the 'Dicastery for Laity, Family & Life'. Reflecting recently on the impact of the encounter, Clare said:

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"Like many of the 1.28 billion Catholics around the world, I first heard of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio when he stepped onto the balcony of St Peter's Basilica on 13 March 2013. As Pope Francis addressed the crowd and the waiting cameras, I could never have imagined that one day I would actually meet him.

"In February 2023, I joined Bishop Richard, John Culley (a parishioner from St Pancras Church in Lewes) and 300 participants from around the world privileged to attend 'Pastors and Lay Faithful Called to Walk Together', a three-day conference at the Vatican. At the time, I was working closely with Bishop Richard, supporting him in presenting the diocesan Pastoral Plan, The Word Who is Life.

"On the final day of the conference, Pope Francis addressed us, speaking once again of his vision for a missionary Church (Evangelii Gaudium, 27; 32) and reminding us of our equality as baptised Catholics - each with a vital role to play in the Lord’s mission. The Pope's words acknowledged the barriers we face in the Church today, but also offered hope and encouragement as we continue our journey together as the People of God.

"Only after the Pope had finished his address, blessed us and our loved ones, and - just as he did on the day of his election - asked us to pray for him, were we told that the Holy Father would meet each of us in person. As I stood in line, my heart raced with joy. When my turn came, his warm smile met mine as I thanked him for all he has done for us. Though our encounter was brief, it is one that I will cherish, and draw strength from, for the rest of my life."

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Many thanks to Clare Wordsworth for sharing this account with us.