Jalisco Governor Enrique Alfaro last week became the first state governor in Mexico to be granted a private audience with Pope Francis at his private residence in Santa Marta in Rome.
“There are no words to describe one of the best experiences of my life,” Alfaro said after the meeting.
The governor said he and the pope talked about the upcoming activities in Jalisco sponsored by Scholas Occurrentes, the worldwide network of schools promoted by Pope Francis. The goal of the foundation is the integration of educational communities around the world, with special emphasis on those with fewer resources.
During the meeting, which lasted 25 minutes, Alfaro said the pair also discussed the culture of peace and how this will be promoted in Jalisco.
Following the encounter, Alfaro spoke of Pope Francis’ “very solid principles … great vision … impressive humility … in many ways his mere presence makes you understand the meaning of his work.
“His Holiness sent a special blessing to the people of Jalisco,” the governor added.
Alfaro was on a working tour of Spain and Italy, after which he was to remain in Europe for a short private vacation.