Pope Benedict XVI encourages Legatus

Rome-Lourdes pilgrimage delights members

Gregory and Susan Maier got the thrill of a lifetime on Sept. 10 when they spent a moment with Pope Benedict XVI during the pontiff’s weekly general audience.

The Maiers, of Potomac, Md., were among 33 Legates on this year’s pilgrimages to Rome, Lourdes and Toulouse. The experience was very moving for the couple.

“It was a moment that almost left us breathless,” Greg Maier said. “I thanked him for his visit to Washington.

“He spoke to us as if we were old friends,” Maier explained. “He shook my hand and said, ‘It was wonderful for me, too.’ He was so warm. It radiated from him. I’m grateful to have shared that historic moment with him.”

At Large member Laurence Sweeny and Jacksonville Chapter member Michael Cascone also spoke to the Holy Father.

“I kissed his ring and he said, ‘Keep up the good work with Legatus,’” Cascone said. “It was a highlight of my life!”

The Holy Father’s general audience was only one of the high points for pilgrims to the Eternal City. Spiritual director, Fr. Joseph Fox, OP, introduced Legates to several members of the Roman Curia.

Cardinal Francis Arinze, prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, celebrated a private Mass for members and joined them for dinner.

Pilgrims also toured the Pontifical North American College and dined with young men preparing for the priesthood. The Cascones’ family foundation supports the college.

“It was my first time there,” he explained. “These young men are a tremendous example of what the Church has to look forward to.”

Prior to the Rome portion of the pilgrimage, Legates toured Toulouse and Lourdes, France.

Jack and Barbara Carew of the Cincinnati Chapter found the visit to Lourdes especially moving.

“It was a time for me to think about the people in my life in need of prayer — people I’d forgotten about, people who are sick,” Jack Carew explained. “It was a spiritually rich experience.”

Patrick Novecosky is the editor of Legatus Magazine.