Gloria, who is from Mexico, has long dreamt of meeting the Pope. And now, nearing her 80th birthday, her nieces helped make the decades-old hope a reality.
GLORIA ALONSO VALENCIA
'My nieces did me a huge favor and invited me. I'm so happy about it. I never thought I'd be in an audience with the Pope and I'm very excited about this gift that God has given me.â?
They come from the Mexican state Hidalgo. When the nieces invited their aunt to Rome, Gloria immediately packed Our Lady of Guadalupe into her suitcase.
GLORIA ALONSO VALENCIA
'It represents the appearance of Our Lady in the clock of Juan Diego. It's made out of fabric from a very unique plant.â?
They knew that the trip would be most special if they came close to Pope Francis. So they attended the Wednesday general audience at the Vatican.
'She is a religious person who has taught us much about faith and the love she feels for Our Lady, God, and the Pope. She has instilled these values and us and we're proud to have brough her here.â?
They return to Mexico with many memories. And she will remember forever that she fulfilled her dream.
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