I had the privilege of meeting the Cardinal of Pakistan, Joseph Coutts, who participated in the papal conclave. It was a truly special and humbling experience.
The moment brought back a cherished memory of my Dada Jaan, my paternal grandfather. After I once met Bishop Saldana, he lovingly asked me, “Did you kiss his ring?” In Catholic tradition, kissing a bishop’s ring is a sign of respect for the office and the apostolic ministry he represents. That conversation has stayed with me over the years.
Meeting the Cardinal today made me miss Dada Jaan even more. I know he would have been so proud. Moments like these remind me how faith, family, and tradition become intertwined in the memories we carry with us throughout our lives.