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by Joe Lumarda, Senior Vice President, Capital Group
Have you ever wondered how one would meet the Pope? There's a variation of a famous saying that perfectly captures my experience: Do what you love, and the blessings will follow…
For me, what I love to do is simple: I love giving back to my community and helping good organizations thrive. I also have a deep love for my Church. I am a lifelong, devoted Catholic, never missing mass on Sunday.
One of my proudest volunteer activities is serving on the board of the LA 84 Foundation and Play Equity Fund. The LA 84 Foundation, created from the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics surplus, supports youth sports programs. The Play Equity Fund, an extension of LA 84, focuses on providing sports opportunities for disadvantaged youth in the Los Angeles area. Both are incredible organizations doing important work.
Former track and field Olympian Tommie Smith (left) and Joe Lumarda (right)
This work caught the attention of the Vatican, which sought our help for the Pope’s international youth empowerment program, Scholas Occurrentes. Started in Buenos Aires by then-Cardinal Bergoglio, now Pope Francis, this program uses the transformative power of sports to uplift youth. The US headquarters is in Los Angeles - Scholas USA.
My connection with the Church led the LA84 Board to offer me an invitation to join the US delegation at an international Scholas conference at the Vatican. I was thrilled to be asked to participate and, as a bonus, was told there may be a chance to meet the Holy Father; health, schedules, and other factors could prevent it, but the possibility was exhilarating, if not a bit unnerving.
If one is going to meet the Pope, you are asked to bring a gift. What does one give the Pope? A Dodger jersey with ‘Il Papa’ #1 crossed my mind, and then, during Mass one Sunday, inspiration struck. I envisioned a liturgical stole adorned with the Scholas logo on one side and the logo of Pelota de Trapo, a program inspired by Pope Francis's childhood memory of playing with a ball of rags. With some help from inspired designers, a one-of-a-kind stole was created—and it turned out beautifully.
With my gift in hand and prayers in my heart, I set off for Rome in May.
The three-day conference was a whirlwind of inspiring sessions and discussions with passionate individuals from around the world, all dedicated to empowering youth through Scholas and sports. Walking through the gates of the Vatican and meeting like-minded people was an unforgettable experience.
On the final day, the moment of truth arrived. Despite the uncertainties, Pope Francis’s health and schedule aligned. He approached slowly in a wheelchair, radiating warmth and energy. I held up the stole as instructed, and when our eyes met, his face lit up. After a brief, heartfelt greeting, I gathered the courage to ask, “May I put this on you?” His bodyguard, initially cautious, gave a nod of approval. I carefully placed the stole around the Holy Father’s neck.
I then mentioned something that any soccer enthusiast would appreciate, “Copa Del Mundo (World Cup) Los Angeles 2026.” His interest piqued immediately. “We want you to come for the championship. And when you say Mass for us at Dodger Stadium, I want you to wear this.” He laughed, smiled, and took my hands warmly. It was a blessed moment indeed.
Earlier that day, I had purchased a replica of Pope Francis’s pectoral cross, known as the ‘Good Shepherd’ cross. The Pope gifts this cross to bishops installed during his tenure. Wearing it during our meeting, I felt a deep connection. The lamb draped around the shepherd’s neck on the cross symbolized the closeness and safety I felt during my encounter with Pope Francis. It’s a moment that will bring me joy and comfort for the rest of my life.
Do what you love, and the blessings will follow…
About the Author
Joe Lumarda
Senior Vice President, Private Wealth Advisor
Capital Group
Joe Lumarda is a Senior Vice President and Private Wealth Advisor at Capital Group. He has a notable career, including roles as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the California Community Foundation and as an Independent Director for Capital Research and Management Company’s endowment funds.
A former U.S. Navy Officer, Joe has served both on active duty and in the reserves. He is also a dedicated board member of the LA84 Foundation, The California Wellness Foundation, the Dan Murphy Foundation, and the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum.
At Capital Group, Joe works with families and nonprofit organizations to achieve their philanthropic goals. He specializes in creating strategic financial plans that support his clients' missions and create lasting legacies. Guided by faith and service, Joe is committed to helping his clients make a positive impact in their communities and the world.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelumarda/
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