The Archbishop of York has planted an orchid during a recent visit to Italy.
The symbolic gesture took place during a visit to Borgo Laudato Si’ in Castel Gandolfo, where the Most Rev Stephen Cottrell planted the orchid gifted by His Majesty The King to Pope Leo during His Majesty The King’s State Visit to the Holy See.
The planting ceremony took place in a garden where Pope Leo visits and prays most weeks.
Archbishop Cottrell said: “May this orchid, a gift exchanged between His Majesty the King and Pope Leo, be a sign of the flourishing that God longs for His Church and for the world.”
The garden of Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence, through the Borgo Laudato Si’ project models sustainable business, gardening and farming, and works to train and inspire others to do the same.
A vision that is shared by His Majesty.
Archbishop Cottrell was joined by Father Manuel Dorantes, Management Director of the Borgo Laudato Si’ in Castel Gandolfo, and joined the gardeners.
The visit concluded with prayers for His Majesty The King and for Pope Leo.
A video of Archbishop Cottrell’s visit to Borgo Laudato Si’ has been made available to the public.