An unforgettable and particularly emotional day experienced in Rome by the students of the Institute “Marconi-Guarasci” of Cosenzadirected by principal Maria Saveria Veltri.
The children of the third and fourth “Goldsmith” classes actually participated in the Pope's general audience.
Accompanied by their teachers (professors Daniela Fazio, Giuliana Biancini, Maria Iaquinta, Romina Altomare, Agostino Paduano and Annamaria Filice) they arrived in St. Peter's Square early in the morning, immersing themselves in the beautiful climate of joy and anticipation that was experienced among the many pilgrims who came to the capital from every part of Italy and the Christian world. For the third class “Orafo” there were students Desiree, Chiara, Antonio Pio, Mattia, Denise, Ernesto, Elisa and Antonio, for the fourth class Orafo there were Antonio, Luigi, Laura and Desiree.
The last phase of the meeting was particularly exciting, with Professor Paduano, teacher of the “Goldsmith” laboratory, who, representing the school community, donated to the Holy Father a metal and wood crucifix specially made by the students of the “Goldsmith” course. .
«It was a truly beautiful moment», recalled the teacher, who spoke with Pope Francis: «At the beginning I didn't even have the strength to speak, the emotion was so great. Once in front of him the agitation passed. He gave me confidence and strength. The Pope really appreciated our thoughts and complimented the students and the entire institute for our dedication to the goldsmith's art.”
Then the request, which broke the rigid protocol of the Holy See: «I told the Pope – recalls the teacher – that the kids from Cosenza were there and that they really wanted to take a photo with him. Pope Francis immediately agreed and gave a nod to those in charge to exceptionally let us pass.”
Read the complete article in the paper edition of Gazzetta del Sud – Cosenza