Rome visit changed for NZ family after Pope’s death

They had travelled abroad for the planned canonisation of Blessed Carlo Acutis, and Easter and Holy Week, “as well as gifting our parents the opportunity to come to Rome and Italy”, Fatima Leung-Wai said.

“My parents are from Samoa, they worked hard, they’re faithful Catholics, part of the Legion of Mary and we wanted to take them, go as a family before we move on with our own lives.”

But the death of Pope Francis changed their plans.

Ann-Margaret Leung-Wai is still processing the moment in history they’ve found themselves to be a part of.

“I’m just in shock, I’m still processing that I’m here in Rome . . . but then hearing the death of Pope Francis is just even another thing I wasn’t expecting, but I’m grateful to be here,” she said.

The sisters had met Pope Francis before, nine years ago at the Catholic World Youth Day in Poland. Fatima had lunch with the Pope.

“He has created a massive impact, reaching the marginalised, the poor, the people in prison, those in hospital so I was very much happy to meet him,” she recalled.

Ann-Margaret was meant to be part of a walk with the Pope, but he extended his time with the group of young people.

“We were only meant to walk with Pope Francis, but he ended up changing the plan, shaking our hands, telling us to go on the popemobile, go for a ride. He was just loving and he felt like my grandma . . . so much love.”

On attending the funeral, Ann-Margaret said that it was another opportunity to represent the Catholic faithful in New Zealand.

FULL STORY

Trip to Rome becomes mission to pay tribute to late Pope (One News)