Pope Leo presented with book written in aid of Caritas Salford
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The Holy Father was the recipient of a special book written in aid of our charity, which was presented to him during a private audience with clergy in Rome last week.
The private audience with Pope Leo XIV, which was part of a gathering of former students of The English College in Rome, comprised several members of clergy from the Diocese of Salford, including Monsignor John Allen.
The book, ‘A Popular History of the Salford Diocese’ by Monsignor Allen, was presented to Pope Leo alongside another publication.
Monsignor Allen said: “Pope Leo was very interested in the two books presented. One was about his neighbours at the English College house at Palazzola, across Lake Albano, which we could see through the window where we were.
“The other was ‘A Popular History of the Salford Diocese’. Pope Leo was pleased that the history was published for Caritas Salford.
“Our meeting was on the feast day of St Philip Neri, known as the second apostle of Rome, and the Holy Father spoke of St Philip’s simplicity and joy. As St Philip did, so too we were to engage with people in their own situations, encourage them, and lead them on.”
The book which was presented to Pope Leo is also proving popular with local and church history enthusiasts, as well as people interested in learning more about the Catholic history of Greater Manchester and Lancashire.
Speaking previously about the publication, which sees money raised from the book sales donated to our charity, Monsignor Allen said: “I’ve always been inspired by the story of our diocese.
“As recently as November 2024, Pope Francis spoke about our Catholic history as keeping ‘the flame of collective conscience alive’. This popular history shows how everything doesn’t start with us, here and now. We are carried on the shoulders of giants. We must build on their powerful spiritual legacy.”
Bishop John Arnold, Bishop of Salford, said: “A careful recording of history is essential, not only for the gathering of facts and events, but also for building a wisdom and foundation for our ongoing journey.
“This work, ‘A Popular History of the Salford Diocese’, provides a very generous compendium of the establishing and growth of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Salford, making tribute to individuals and organisations, and describing events that have nourished Catholic life.
“It is very good to see how Gospel Values have been lived throughout so many generations. This work is a tribute to all that has been achieved and provides an invitation to move forward in faith.”
At the private audience, Canon Paul Daly was also presented to Pope Leo and spoke about the work of our Caritas House accommodation for people experiencing homelessness, and those who are supported there.
To find out more about the book, or to order a copy for you or as a gift for someone else, visit the news section of our website now by clicking here. We are very grateful to Monsignor Allen and Canon Paul Daly for their ongoing support.