Cardinal Tagle’s first act of charity surprises new pope
Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle shared a heartwarming story about his first act of charity to Pope Leo XIV: giving him candy. This sweet gesture marked a memorable moment before Robert Francis Prevost became the new pope.
Interestingly, the candy wasn’t only for Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Tagle recalled that since his first conclave in 2013, where Pope Francis was elected, he always brought candy with him. He knew the long hours of choosing a pope would likely make him hungry.
Memories from the 2013 conclave and candy sharing
Back in 2013, Pope Francis even noticed Cardinal Tagle carrying candy. The late pope was amused and asked for one himself. “He said: This little boy, bringing candies in the Sistine Chapel… [He said] Do you have one? I’m hungry, please give me one,” Tagle recalled during a press conference in Rome.
Tagle also remembered Jean-Louis Cardinal Tauran, who announced Pope Francis’ election worldwide. Because of his Parkinson’s disease, Tauran was worried his voice wouldn’t be heard. To comfort him, Tagle offered a candy to help him relax.
Sharing candy continues at the latest conclave
At the recent conclave, Tagle sat beside Cardinal Prevost and noticed him taking deep breaths. Offering candy again, Tagle said, “That’s my first act of charity to the new pope.” They shared a quiet, sweet moment together.
When asked about his relationship with Pope Leo XIV, Tagle described him as “very human, very humble, but very discerning.” Despite Pope Leo XIV’s serious and thoughtful nature, he also has a good sense of humor.
This simple yet meaningful act of charity with candy shows how small gestures can create lasting bonds even in the highest circles of the Church.