It was an early and beautiful Wednesday morning. We sat among couples from around the world, all newly married and beaming with joy and nervous excitement. The anticipation was palpable as the audience concluded and Pope Francis greeted each pair personally, moving up and down the rows at the base of St. Peter’s Basilica in his wheelchair. The air began to buzz with questions: “What should I say?” “Do I ask for a selfie?” “How do I greet him?”

When our turn came, anticipation turned to awe. After greeting the first two couples in our group, Pope Francis approached Jenny and me with a warm smile and extended his hand. On my lap was a small box labeled Gammarelli, the name of the pope’s personal tailor. Inside was a brand-new white zucchetto, precisely his size. The night before, inspired by our friend Andres from the Diocese of Sacramento, I had purchased it for this moment. He had told us about a special pilgrim tradition: when a visitor presents the Pope with a new zucchetto, the Pope may exchange it for the one he is wearing.

As I opened the box and asked him for a trade, Pope Francis grinned. He picked up the zucchetto, examined it, and gently placed it on his head. After a moment, he removed it, handed it back to me, and said, “This is now a gift for you.”

Overwhelmed with gratitude, I quickly added, “Pope Francis, the young Church and the whole Church in San Jose in California pray for you every single day.” His response was personal and warm, “Thank you so much. Please know that I am praying for all of you, too.”

Looking back, I am truly grateful for that brief but meaningful moment. Sharing that encounter with our late Holy Father was an immense blessing. We cherish his prayers, his presence, and the simple gift of the zucchetto.

As we continue to pray for the repose of his soul, may we be inspired by the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of faithfulness to God, compassion for those on the margins, and a humility that redefined papal leadership. May our Church, especially the young, continue to follow his example of walking with others in love, mercy, and joy.