Pope Leo XIV has received a special gift from students at St Francis Primary School in Tannum Sands, Central Queensland. The students stitched a wall quilt, which was presented to the pope earlier this week by Australian Ambassador to the Holy See, Keith Pitt, and his brother Scott, who teaches at St Francis.
During an audience with the pope, Mr. Pitt officially began his role as ambassador by presenting his credential letters. Alongside this formal occasion, Pope Leo XIV was gifted the quilt made by the students.
St Francis principal Samantha Suthers expressed the school’s excitement about the event. She said the quilt reflects the core values of the school, including compassion, acceptance, hospitality, and mercy, which are part of students’ daily learning and relationships.
“We are very proud that our students now share this meaningful connection with the Vatican,” Suthers said. “This is truly a moment to celebrate as a school community.”
In addition to the quilt, Mr. Pitt was also filmed giving the pope some iconic Australian food and produce. In return, Pope Leo blessed Mr. Pitt and his family and gifted him a book about the papal apartments.
