On World AIDS Day - December 1, 2021, the day Don Victor Mooney and his family met Pope Francis was one steeped in profound humility and emotion. As tears welled in their eyes, the Mooney family found themselves in a moment of spiritual connection that would leave an indelible mark upon their lives. For Pope Francis, the encounter was more than a warm handshake or a fleeting exchange; it was an intentional act of compassion and presence that extended to Don Victor, his wife, and their son alike.

This interaction, intimate and sincere, resonated deeply with Mooney, who described it as a transformative experience. He saw in Pope Francis’s actions a reflection of the pontiff’s well-known commitment to love, empathy, and service to humanity. “To truly honor Pope Francis,” Mooney said, “means action.” These words encapsulate his belief that the essence of the pope’s message lies in taking tangible steps to make a difference in the world.

For the Mooney family, honoring this moment meant turning reflection into deeds. Inspired by the pope's example, they resolved to engage more deeply with their community, offering their time and resources to causes that uplift the marginalized and bring hope to those in need, a reminder of the power of human connection and the responsibility to act with kindness and purpose.

In many ways, the meeting exemplifies Pope Francis’s broader mission: to inspire individuals not only through words but through meaningful encounters that awaken the heart and call forth action. For Don Victor Mooney and his family, that mission became personal, a humble yet powerful call to embody the values of compassion and service in their everyday lives.