The Pope made his way very slowly to the podium where he took his place on a large, stone chair. He greeted groups from many countries, moving easily from one language to the next. Every continent was represented. Once mentioned, each group gave a rousing cheer but some also performed a party piece much to the obvious delight of the Holy Father. We all received the Papal blessing and Pope Benedict then descended the steps towards the front row. He moved unhurriedly along, having a word for everyone. Suddenly he was right in front of me. He took my hand and looked me straight in the eyes.

“Your Holiness, this is Don Maclean from BBC Radio” said Fr Andrew from somewhere behind me.

“Ah yes” said the Holy Father, “thank you for all you have done for the faith and for the Church.” He said that to me – wow! I explained that I’d broadcast to the whole of Great Britain every Sunday for the last fifteen years then I gave him the first copy of the new CD. He smiled broadly, “the Parables made easier to understand – wonderful” he said.

Outside in St Peter’s Square, the sun shone from a clear blue sky. I thought of my Mom, of Sister Annuncia and Miss King whose R.E. class I attended every Saturday morning, the three women who had blessed me with the Christian faith, and knew they would be looking down with great pride. It had only been a minute, maybe less, but it was one of the most memorable minutes of my entire life.