Students Take Their Education Global As General Audience Members of Pope Leo in Rome

From the heart of St. Peter’s Square to the winding streets of Trastevere, two students from Notre Dame Academy are experiencing a journey that transcends textbooks and classroom walls. Representing the Notre Dame Academy community with grace and gratitude, 11th grade students, Mary Kate Guiliano and Olivia Testa, accompanied by newly appointed Campus Minister Sr. Christa, CND, traveled to Rome on Sunday for a powerful week-long encounter of faith, fellowship, and global citizenship.

 

At the center of their pilgrimage was the unforgettable experience of attending a General Audience with Pope Leo XIV this morning, where they joined a sea of faithful individuals from around the world, lifting their prayers in unison and carrying the spirit of NDA and St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, Foundress of the Congregation of Notre Dame, with them. With reverent hearts, they visited Santa Maria Maggiore, paying homage at the tomb of Pope Francis— a moment that blended history, legacy, and a call to live with purpose.

 

The group also stepped into Synod Hall, the historic space where Cardinals convened prior to electing the pope. There, Mary Kate, Olivia, and Sr. Christa engaged in profound reflection on the meaning of vocation and the importance of using one's gifts in service to the world with fellow members of Scholas Occurrentes.

 

Notre Dame Academy is thrilled to be able to partner with Scholas Occurrentes and the Archdiocese of NY to fund this rare and incredible opportunity for our students and Sr. Christa.

 

Scholas Occurrentes is a global initiative founded by Pope Francis to bring together young people from all backgrounds, cultures, and faiths. Its mission is to inspire and empower youth to become active, compassionate citizens who live out their values through service, community engagement, and a deep sense of purpose rooted in faith and human connection.