In a moment of profound emotion for a Brazilian family, Pope Leo XIV personally blessed their 10-month-old daughter, Liz, inside the iconic popemobile. The event took place during the weekly papal audience in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, where the Pope greets pilgrims, prays, and grants the apostolic blessing.
The family, hailing from the city of Araras in São Paulo state, had meticulously planned a European vacation. The itinerary included stops in Portugal, Spain, France, Brussels, Amsterdam, Italy, and the Vatican. The parents, medical doctor Carolina Vicentim de Moraes and her fiancé, had applied for permission to attend the audience, a request that was approved. They decided to keep it a surprise for the baby's grandmothers, only revealing the news on the afternoon before the event.
Carolina described the experience as 'exciting and unique.' She noted that while she saw the Pope blessing other children, she initially thought it might be impossible for them due to security protocols that keep the popemobile's exact route undisclosed. The family chose a spot along one of the possible paths and positioned themselves there.
Their perseverance paid off. A kind Italian couple made way for the Brazilian family to reach the front. Behind them, a group of fellow Brazilians they had just met cheered them on. 'What seemed impossible came true. Our baby received the Pope's blessing and God's protection,' Carolina recounted.
The emotional impact was overwhelming for everyone present. 'Everyone cried, it was an indescribable feeling,' the mother said. This marked Carolina's first visit to Europe and her first time in the presence of a Pope.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, USA, is 69 years old and made history as the first North American pope. He is also the first pontiff to come from a predominantly Protestant country. Despite his American origins, Prevost built a significant part of his religious career in Latin America, particularly in Peru, where he rose to prominence before reaching the highest offices in the Roman Curia.
At the time of his election, he held two key positions in the Vatican: Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, the body responsible for appointing bishops, and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. Known for his discreet profile and calm voice, Prevost typically avoids the spotlight and interviews. However, he is viewed as a reformist, aligned with the path of openness implemented by his predecessor, Francis. He has a solid background in theology and is considered a profound expert in canon law, which governs the Catholic Church.
The family's European journey, which began on April 21, was set to conclude with their return to the region on May 9. The unexpected and deeply personal blessing from the Pope became the unforgettable highlight of their trip.
Based on reporting from g1.