Viewpoint
An
audience with the pope
By Katie Maxbauer McNulty ’97
While
his death was inevitable, like many, I felt deep loss at the passing
of Pope John Paul II. I was gripped by the rituals performed and tears
shed for the only pontiff I remember. Yet, I am fortunate to recall
a rare private audience with the pope in November 2003. At that time,
I was an invited observer to the 400th anniversary of the Pontifical
Academy of Sciences (PAS). As a Vatican guest, I lodged in the Domus
Sanctae Marthae, the hotel where the cardinals reside during a conclave.
To my delight, another SMC alumna, Dr. Maryann Wolf ’69 of Tufts
University, was among the approximately 90 academicians, experts, and
observers.
On the third morning, word arrived that the Holy Father would receive
our group. Anticipation quickly built as we walked from Casina Pius
IV (c.1561) through the Vatican Gardens and along courtyards of the
Apostolic Palace. Here, we ascended wide stairways, feasting our eyes
on the extraordinary art and sculpture at each landing. Large, wooden
doors were opened by the Swiss Guard revealing the Clementine Hall (Sala
Clementina). This grand room’s walls and lofty ceilings were ornately
fashioned with Renaissance frescoes. (In April, this room was seen worldwide
when John Paul II’s body lay in state.) At
the head of the Clementine Hall was an enormous fireplace adorned with
the red velvet Papal coat-of-arms and two large doorways leading to
other halls.
It was through one of these entrances I imagined the pope would emerge.
To my surprise, he entered through a small rear door, directly behind
my seat, wheeled out by his men dressed in white tie and black tails.
The pope waved, eyes bright, as he passed just inches from me along
the center aisle. John Paul II was renowned for making an instant connection
with people. I experienced this immense holiness, and joyous tears filled
my eyes.
The Holy Father read brief remarks encouraging scientists to use their
discoveries to benefit humankind. Though his voice was weak, his words
reflected a deep understanding of modern scientific advancements or
their possible moral implications. Then, each guest was invited to file
individually toward the pope. Watching the rows ahead of me, I began
to wonder what I would do when I came face to face with the leader I
have admired. At that moment, I was aware of how profoundly grace works
in one’s life. I recalled those who guided my Catholic journey,
many from my days at Saint Mary’s. I carried each of them in my
prayerful heart to the pope. When my turn arrived, I knelt, kissed his
Fisherman’s ring, and thanked him for his inspiring life. Peace
and joy filled me as I returned to my seat. I wondered why God had chosen
me for such a unique blessing.
Once the pope had blessed everyone, he took a group photograph and retired
to his private quarters. Afterwards, many of us shared our thoughts,
including several who were astounded that the pope greeted them in their
native language. Others were still too moved to speak. It was one of
those moments in life that you wish you could share with everyone. Later
that day, Vatican photographers surprised each of us with snapshots
of our meeting. Now, more than 18 months later, I use my photographs
and memories to share with others my encounter with one of the giants
of our lifetime.
Katie Maxbauer McNulty ’97 is a
consultant for higher education with the Pappas Group Inc. and Ross
Institute. A native of Michigan, she and her husband, Dr. Kieran McNulty,
a Baylor University professor, reside in Texas with their two hounds.
