Wishaw pupils' trip to Rome coincides with beginning of Pope Leo's tenure
The 20-strong group from St Aidan's took in the tourist sights
Pupils from a Wishaw school became the first Scottish students to have an audience with the newly elected Pope.
The S5 pupils from St Aidan's High School met Pope Leo XIV during a pilgrimage to Rome, accompanied by Mr Martin Mann, Principal Teacher of Religious Education, and Mrs Elaine Grogan of the Maths Department.
The 20 pupils were on a trip that had been planned for many months, and it was fortunate that it coincided with the early days of Pope Leo's tenure.
The pupils raised funds for their trip through a race night and raffles. They had wonderful experiences which included visiting Santa Maria Maggiore, where Pope Francis is now entombed, the Colosseum and Roman Forum, the beautiful Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps.
Kevinbarry Quigley of S6 said 'It was amazing to be at an audience with the Pope. We got a shoutout and we saw the Pope driving past. It's an experience I won't forget.'
Ava Feighan said 'It was an amazing experience and it brought me closer to my faith.'
Mr Mann said 'Our pupils were amazed by St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. To have been blessed by a new pope and experience all the richness of faith that encapsulates our Catholic ethos was wonderful for both staff and pupils. This is an experience that we will all cherish.'
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