The 2010 Papal Visit
The 2010 Papal Visit
On September 17th 2010 the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, visited St Mary’s University College, Twickenham as part of the first Papal Visit to the UK since 1982. He visited the University College’s Strawberry Hill campus to lead three events during the second day of his four-day state visit.
In the first event of the day the Holy Father prayed with representatives of religious congregations, including those who have a charism for education and the history of education, in the University College Chapel.
He then went on to meet 3,500 school children and students to celebrate Catholic education at ‘The Big Assembly’ event. Finally, he met with religious leaders of various denominations and faiths in the Waldegrave Drawing Room to discuss religion and belief in our society.
St Mary’s was specially selected by the Vatican for its first-rate facilities and location, and for the outstanding contribution the University College has made to Catholic education during its 160 year history.
Coverage of the events at St Mary's was broadcast to millions of people around the world and featured extensively in the local, national and international press.
