On November 30, 2020, the fraternity of the General House of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe, located on Via San Teodoro in Rome, had the profoundly joyful experience of hosting a fraternal visit from our confrere, Friar Mauro GAMBETTI. Pope Francis recently appointed Friar Mauro as a new Cardinal in the Holy Church.
During lunch, Friar Mauro was welcomed the way all guests at the friary are welcomed, with joy and brotherhood, because it is always a precious gift to welcome one’s brothers. Friar Mauro talked to the fraternity about some of his experiences over the last few important days, beginning with Pope Francis’ announcement during the Angelus on October 25, 2020, up to the day of the Consistory on November 28, 2020.
It was an unforgettable occasion for the friars, filled with stories and laughter. After lunch, the Cardinal was kind enough to let his picture be taken, not only with the whole fraternity, but with each individual friar as well. Later, accompanied by the Guardian, Friar Germano TOGNETTI, he toured the rooms where Maximilian KOLBE founded the Militia of the Immaculata.
We thank Friar Mauro for his visit and we thank God for the new life of service that our dear brother will carry out in the Church.
Friar Elio J. ROJAS, Friary Chronicler