In preparation, I read A Pope Francis Lexicon, a collection of essays by insightful global contributors reflecting on words and ideas important to the People’s Pope, I also collected items to be blessed for family and friends, including a favorite necklace of my mother’s and medallions representing St. Joseph (the patron saint of social justice) and the Blessed Mother (representing the Foundation’s work in maternal health).

But nothing could prepare me for the visit. The 90-minute wait was a pilgrimage of its own, as our group wended its way through the Vatican and encountered other visitors whose cultural finery highlighted the vast and global importance of the occasion. The diversity of cultures and languages we encountered made our U.S. delegation feel at once small and a part of a much larger picture.

And then it was our turn! During my time with the Holy Father, I delivered a Thanksgiving card and a letter explaining the Foundation’s work and vision. I asked him to pray for me personally, for the members of the Foundation and Ascension teams and for the individuals and communities we touch. He, in turn, asked that I pray for him, noting that his work is also hard and guided by the vision and hopes of others.

I feel certain you can see from this accompanying photo the kindness and sense of humanity that emanates from Pope Francis. The feelings of goodness and joy and shared mission will remain with me and guide me for the rest of my life.