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iBilib host Chris Tiu recalls what he calls “one of the highlights of my life” when he met the late Pope Francis back in 2015 when he visited the Vatican. He was able to meet with the pope, and even talked to him and received a request of prayers from his holiness.

On Easter Monday, April 21, The Vatican confirmed that the Latin American Pope passed away at the age of 88. Back in February, Pope Francis was hospitalized after suffering from bronchitis. In the same month, he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.

In his Instagram post, Chris expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis for his “steadfast leadership through such challenging and complex times.”

“Your life of service and unwavering loyalty to God & the Church has inspired me and so many others. You have championed inclusivity, mercy, simplicity, charity, peace, and love among many others which is exactly what we need in this world!! Thank you for everything!! We love you, and I will miss you so much!!” Chris wrote.

The iBilib host admitted that he would look to the words of the passed pope as an example and guide when he's confused or lost. Chris also expressed hope that the people will be able to honor him and his legacy through small actions.

TAKE A LOOK AT HOW FILIPINOS MOURNED THE DEATH OF POPE FRANCIS IN THIS GALLERY:

In his post, Chris shared a photo of himself shaking Pope Francis' hand when they met while he was part of the Papal Audience. He also shared the short interaction they had.

“You told me to always pray for you, and then you handed me a rosary. I remember feeling stunned as if I had met a Saint and felt a call to be holier and to act with kindness,” Chris said.

Chris ended his post, “This is one of the highlights of my life and I will cherish this forever. Rest in Peace now our dearest Pope Francis.”

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A post shared by Chris Tiu (@chris_tiu17)