Dear Catholic Exchange:
After reading Seven Steps to a Papal Audience…and a Personal Blessing regarding one newlywed couple's success in meeting Pope John Paul II, personally, my fiancée and I were moved and have been following the recommendations of the couple and, so far, they are working marvelously.
One question we do have is regarding a gift for His Holiness. As an American Catholic couple we want to present a gift to His Holiness that is both personal and appropriate yet not ordinary. This, as you may guess, is posing quite a challenge.
Do you have any recommendations for appropriate gifts from a newly married Catholic couple to the pope?
Many thanks!
Rob Trotta
Dear Mr. Trotta,
Greetings in Christ! I hope this response will adequately address your question regarding your visit to the Holy Father.
Several people who have visited Rome have suggested that the gift be sent ahead of time to the pope’s secretary at the following address:
Most Reverend Stanislaw Dziwisz
Secretary to His Holiness John Paul II
Apostolic Palace
00120 Vatican City
Europe
The secretary receives a very large volume of mail, so it is uncertain when your gift will be received.
As for suggested gifts, something small and personal would be appropriate, such as a plaque expressing your gratitude to the Holy Father. Our pope receives many gifts from all around the world, so you may want to give him an item with personal significance. You might also consider a spiritual bouquet of prayers you have prayed for him or a framed photograph from your wedding. Also, if you come from an area with a strong cultural influence (German, Irish, etc.) you might give him something related to that group.
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Elizabeth Hruska
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