Former NYC Principal Recalls Meeting Pope Francis at Our Lady Queen of Angels School

Pope Francis's 2015 Visit to East Harlem

• 🎯 The Pope chose Our Lady Queen of Angels School in East Harlem because of its community service and its role as a long-standing immigrant stopping point.
• 💖 The school's deep faith-filled community and the Catholic Church's support through various times made it a fitting representation of his message.

Interaction with Students and Projects

• 🎶 Upon entering, the Pope encouraged students to sing louder after they became awestruck, showing a great sense of humor and connecting with them.
• 🌎 Students presented projects based on his encyclical "Laudate Sea", focusing on caring for the Earth and their common home.
• 💡 Second and third graders showcased their explanations and inventions for managing trash and protecting the environment, demonstrating they had heard his message.

Pope's Message of Hope and Hard Work

• 🤝 The Pope's consistent message to both children and adults was one of hope, mutual care, and prayer.
• 📚 He emphasized the importance of hard work, noting that as parents work hard for their children, students must also work hard.
• ✅ This aligned with the school's motto, "to do well, and to do good," creating a strong match between his teachings and the school's values.