Kneeling at the side of Pope John Paul II - "The Mercy Pope"
Vatican, Italy Circa 1993
While working with the Marians of the Immaculate Conception I had an opportunity to return to Rome with with my parents, John and Mary Kruse (directly behind me) and a small group led by Monsignor Michael Dylag (standing next to the Pope).
Just a few days before our meeting, the 73 year old Vicar of Christ fractured his shoulder after falling down ... and he still met with us! As the picture shows, the Pope's right arm was in a sling and we were told prior to his arrival not to touch him because of his injury.
If it looks like the Pope is laughing, he was. Several people in the group were so excited that they couldn't help but reach out and touch him, causing a bit of commotion. My father said something like, "they said not to touch him..." And suddenly the Pope said, "Yeah ... don't touch." Everyone broke out laughing right when this picture was taken.
When I had a chance to speak to the Holy Father, knowing it wouldn't be long, I told him I was working to spread the Divine Mercy message and devotion and gave him greetings from the Marians of the Immaculate Conception at the National Shrine of Divine Mercy. He looked directly at me with a look one had to experience in order to explain and said "Very good!"
Another experience that laid the groundwork for Divine Mercy Network.
Pray one Our Father, Hail Mary and a Glory Be for the intentions and protection of Pope Benedict XVI.
And please Pray for Divine Mercy Network every day!