Filipino couple in Norway meets Pope Leo XIV, baby cradled by pontiff

A Filipino couple from Norway had an unexpected encounter with Pope Leo XIV during a visit to the Vatican on August 20.

The couple's six-month-old baby, Maddie, was cradled by the pope who greeted them warmly in English.

Mich and Ejae, originally from Davao City, moved to Norway in 2013 and are part of Couples for Christ.

Despite initially feeling disappointed about long lines and a separate entrance for families, they were granted front-row seats.

Pope Leo XIV's interaction with the family included asking where they were from and blessing them, leaving the couple deeply moved.

The encounter reinforced their Catholic faith and made their European vacation truly memorable.

Mich expressed her gratitude for Pope Leo XIV's kindness and warmth during the brief but meaningful meeting.