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Staff and students from Wimbledon College meet Pope Leo XIV in Rome

In a remarkable affirmation of faith-inspired civic engagement, students and staff from Wimbledon College, as well as various other Catholic school community organisers from across the country, were welcomed at the Vatican by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV during the General Audience on Wednesday, 25 June 2025.

The visit marks a significant moment in the journey of an initiative around “Called to Action”, a toolkit launched in 2024 to support Catholic schools and colleges in living out the principles of Catholic Social Teaching through community organising. The toolkit, developed by Citizens UK in partnership with Catholic school organisers from member institutions, aims to place the dignity of the human person, solidarity, and the common good at the heart of Catholic education in a practical and lived-out sense.

Pope Leo XIV offered “special greetings to the members of Citizens UK Catholic movement.” The organisers were later able to present the Pope with a copy of “Called to Action” and other symbolic gifts from the schools. His Holiness graciously signed photographs and items, which will now be displayed in the schools as a reminder of the visit.

Pope Leo was also presented with a copy of “Not Only with Words”, a report which tells the story of parishes in Citizens UK who have also been community organising to live out the Church’s teaching on social justice and Synodality.

Thomas, a student from Wimbledon College said:

“Pope Leo had a kind smile for everyone. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d take part in anything like this. It’s really strengthened my faith and desire to share that loving kindness with others.”

Adrian Laing, Headteacher of Wimbledon College shared his experience:

“It was a fantastic opportunity to attend the Papal audience, raising the profile of Citizens UK and the positive work that the schools have undertaken improving the lives of others.

It was a real privilege and faith affirming moment to be in the Vatican and to meet the Pope in person in this Jubilee Year of Hope. He showed a genuine interest in our pupils, who were proud ambassadors of the College, as he spoke with them. The items he signed will have a special place at the College.

In addition, being able to visit many of the sites closely connected to St Ignatius of Loyola, including praying in his chapel, made the visit an even more memorable occasion.”

James Potter, Chaplain of Wimbledon College, summed up his feelings on the trip

“It was an incredible experience. I am hugely passionate about the work that is going on day in day out in Citizens UK alliances across the country. It has been a privilege to be part of this group of inspiring young people and adults. I hope these partnerships between Catholic schools and Citizens UK continue to strengthen and grow, because I think there is so much potential for us to contribute to the betterment of our local communities.”

The delegation included young organisers and staff from Wimbledon College (Merton), St Antony’s Primary School, St Bonaventure’s (both East London), St Thomas More Catholic High School (North Tyneside), Cardinal Newman College (Brighton), and Greyfriars Catholic School (Oxford).

This story was kindly provided by James Potter, Chaplain at Wimbledon College

Photo credit: Mazur/cbcew.org.uk