Scottish Catholic Observer

The order’s ecclesiastical advisor, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon of Liverpool, had arranged the meeting as part of this year’s centenary celebrations.

Archbishop McMahon introduced Mr Grogan to Pope Francis, who was very interested in the activities of the Knights and the work they carry out as a leading lay order in the United Kingdom.

During the meeting the supreme knight presented the Holy Father with a painting the order had commissioned from Scottish artist Ryan Mutter, depicting St Columba, with the historic Iona Abbey in the background. Pope Francis showed great interest in the painting, taking time to examine it in some detail.

‘Holy Water’

Deputy supreme knight Harry Welsh, who joined Mr Grogan on the visit, then presented Pope Francis with a bottle of whisky which he cheerfully accepted, commenting, ‘Ah holy water,’ and directing that it should be taken up to his own quarters.

Afterwards, the supreme knight said that it had been a great honour to speak with the Holy Father and that it was something he would remember for the rest of his life.

He added: “This meeting is a marvellous addition to our order’s centenary year celebrations. We were honoured that the Holy Father spent his precious time with us and gave us his blessing.”

Mr Welsh said: “I would just like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to the order and to our Worthy Supreme Knight Bertie Grogan for giving me the privilege and honour of representing the Knights of St Columba on such a prestigious occasion.”