Central Iowa family says it was a 'blessing' and a 'privilege' to have met Pope Francis
A Central Iowa family says they are grateful for the opportunity to have met Pope Francis in person during a 2020 pilgrimage to Rome.
Antonio Banuelos said he and his wife were able to bring their three kids to Vatican City as part of a pilgrimage through the board of directors for the Knights of Columbus. Banuelos is a member of the board of directors for the Catholic fraternal service organization.
"He's one of the great men, the great hearts that we have in human history," he said. "We had the blessing and the privilege to be in front of him."
The family of five got to shake hands with the pope. Banuelos was even able to have a short conversation with Pope Francis. The words they exchanged still stick with him to this day.
"I just told him in Spanish, 'Your Holiness, please pray for immigrants,'" Banuelos said. "He stopped and turned and said, 'I do it all the time. Please pray for me.'"
The Banuelos' home is filled with memories from that trip, including a photo album, a rosary that was blessed by the Holy Father, and a papal blessing that hangs on the wall of their living room.
Banuelos said the pope's life and legacy is an inspiration to him and others worldwide to care for the poor and marginalized.
"He has been a strong advocate for immigrants, for the poor," he said. "We have to be opening the doors of our homes, our hearts, and our parishes to welcome all to come in and enjoy God's mercy and God's love."
The Diocese of Des Moines will host a memorial Mass for Pope Francis this Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Basilica of St. John.
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