During their recent formation trip to Rome, students from Woodlands Academy and Dublin Oak Academy had the opportunity to experience moments that brought their Catholic faith to life — creating memories they will carry forever.

One of the highlights of their visit was participating in the Easter Sunday celebrations at the Vatican. In an atmosphere filled with hope and renewal, students witnessed Pope Francis greeting the pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square during his traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing.

Among thousands of visitors, a meaningful moment took place when a photo of the Woodlands girls was shared on the official Instagram account of Pope Francis — an unexpected honor that made the day even more memorable.

From a joyful encounter to a lasting farewell

Only a day later, the significance of that encounter deepened as the world received the news of Pope Francis’s passing.

For our students, having witnessed his final public appearance became a profound moment of reflection — a living memory of seeing the Holy Father one last time.

Following the announcement of his death, Dublin Oak students returned to St. Peter’s Basilica to honor Pope Francis before the public funeral.

There, standing among thousands of faithful, they offered a final tribute to a man who had touched millions through his humility, strength, and compassion— a solemn moment of prayer and unity with the Catholic Church worldwide.

It was a farewell marked by gratitude, reverence, and living faith. A powerful reminder of the formation they are experiencing every day.

Moments that form, experiences that shape

At OAK International Academies, formation is not only taught — it’s lived.

It happens through daily practice, and through moments like these that connect our students to the Church, to the world, and to their greater purpose.

This journey to Rome is a clear reflection of what growing by formation truly means: growing in faith, gratitude, and love, and carrying these experiences deep within their hearts for a lifetime.

Witnessing history, living their faith abroad, and participating in events of such significance are part of the unique hallmark of an OAK formation — where travel, cultural immersion, and personal encounters are woven into a transformative educational experience.