Ballygar man and his wife enjoyed special moment with Pope Francis a year ago today
His Holiness Pope Francis shares a special moment with Michael and Erin McDonagh in St. Peter's Square a year ago today.
April 24th 2024 is a date etched in the hearts of Ballygar native Michael McDonagh and his wife Erin.
Twelve months ago today, Michael and Erin, who is from Sligo, were among a group of newlyweds from around the world who got the unique opportunity to receive a special marriage blessing from Pope Francis in Rome.
In receiving the blessing, the couple also enjoyed a lighthearted moment with the late Pope during the once in a lifetime meeting in St. Peter’s Square.
The day before, Michael and Erin had purchased a ‘Zucchetto’ – an ecclesiastical skullcap worn by some clergy - from the Pope’s tailor and brought it along to the ceremony.
Pope Francis blessed the Zucchetto but also tried it on for size as he smiled at the couple.
The Pontiff passed away on Easter Monday and his funeral will take place on Saturday in St. Peter's Square.
See the full story of Michael and Erin’s special papal encounter in next Tuesday’s edition of the Roscommon Herald.
Watch the video here capturing the couple's special moment with Pope Francis:
