Pope Benedict XVI visits Sydney Campus

Scenes from Pope Benedict XVI's visit to the Sydney Campus.



21st July 2008

His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI visited The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Sydney Campus on Friday 18th July.

The Holy Father had requested to meet with local young people at risk of alcohol and substance abuse, victims of homelessness and other forms of disadvantage. The University was privileged to host this occasion and a number of young guests within its precincts at Sacred Heart Church, Darlinghurst.

At 7pm Pope Benedict entered Notre Dame through the newly renamed Benedict XVI Medical Library where he inspected a plaque commemorating his visit. He then greeted a small group of Notre Dame pilgrims awaiting him in the library.

One staff member who met the Pope, Anusha Jebanasam, said that the Pontiff made an intimate connection with the Notre Dame pilgrims.

“We were deeply humbled by the presence of His Holiness as he took time to bless each of us. Pope Benedict radiated warmth and holiness and was genuinely delighted to encounter students and staff as he entered the medical library named in his honour.”

The Pope then entered the church to meet the young people invited as guests of the University, Centacare and the Catholic Education Office, Sydney.

Two young people spoke in moving testimonies before the Pope. His Holiness responded with an Address and led the congregation in prayer. Before leaving Pope Benedict greeted privately a number of the young people and their families.

The Vice Chancellor-elect, Professor Celia Hammond, commented:  “There is clearly no greater honour for a Catholic University than a visit from the Holy Father. We were privileged to host both him and the young people chosen to meet him on this great day for Notre Dame.”

 

Media contact:

Moira Saunders
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