ARCHBISHOP CHAPUT’S WEEKLY COLUMN: POPE FRANCIS AND ‘THE INTERVIEW’

PHILADELPHIA PA–I had the gift of two unusual blessings last week. The first was a moment to greet Pope Francis in Rome after his Wednesday, September 18, general audience. We had met and served as delegates to the 1997 Special Assembly for America. Sixteen years have passed, but this Pope has a remarkable memory to match his generous spirit. He recalled a friendly conversation we’d had in great detail, and the events of those days that helped shape both of us as young bishops.