Pope Francis told members of The Papal Foundation that their
contributions are helping combat “the many forms of material and
spiritual poverty” present throughout the world.
“The needs of God’s people throughout the world are great, and your
efforts to advance the Church’s mission are helping to fight the many
forms of material and spiritual poverty present in our human family, and
to contribute to the growth of fraternity and peace,” the Pope said
April 11 in the Vatican’s Clementine Hall.
This year around 100 members of the Philadelphia-based foundation
traveled to Rome during the week after Easter to present Pope Francis
with their annual contribution.
They were able to present him with an $8.6 million donation, which he
will be able to use during the coming year for his charitable
activities.
Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl, president of the foundation, has been leading
the pilgrimage to Rome, and he highlighted the connection between the
Pope’s emphasis on the poor and the foundation.
“From the first day of his election, Pope Francis has reminded us of
the Church’s fundamental responsibility to the poor and marginalized,”
the cardinal said in an April 11 press release.
William Canny, the foundation’s Chief Operating Officer, pointed out
that the annual pilgrimage is “always a deeply spiritual experience, but
this year we were especially blessed to have a private audience with
Pope Francis as he sets the course for his papacy.
“These are exciting, hope-filled days for the Church, and for a world in need,” Canny stated.
During Thursday’s audience, Pope Francis recalled that over the last 25
years the foundation has “helped the Successor of Saint Peter by
supporting a number of apostolates and charities especially close to his
heart.”
The donations from the foundation have helped fund the formation of
clergy and religious, provided shelter for the homeless, offered medical
assistance and care for the poor and needy, and created educational and
employment opportunities.
Father Patrick Okoye, a priest of the Diocese of Awka in Nigeria, is
one recipient of a Papal Foundation scholarship, which has made it
possible for him to study spirituality at the Pontifical Gregorian
University in Rome.
In an April 10 interview with CNA he said that The Papal Foundation
“has changed my life, brought a new geography, and I feel a more deep
sense of commitment to the Church, and to give back what has been given
to me generously.”
The foundation, Fr. Okoye reflected, has provided him with a “great
community of love” where he has met many priests, nuns and other people
who have been blessed to receive the financial help they needed.