Staff recalls future pope's visit to Vallombrosa in Menlo Park Staff recalls future pope's visit to Vallombrosa in Menlo Park (April 27, 2005)

By Jane Knoerle

Almanac Lifestyles Editor

Moises Garcia still has the rosary that Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger gave him six years ago during his stay at Vallombrosa Center in Menlo Park. Although he treasures the rosary, Mr. Garcia had no idea it was a gift from the future head of the Catholic Church.

Mr. Garcia, who has been on the Vallombrosa maintenance staff for 11 years, remembers Cardinal Ratzinger -- now Pope Benedict XVI -- as a gentle man who presented each staff member with a rosary as a parting gift.

Night manager Arrin Skelley was on hand to greet the cardinal when he arrived at Vallombrosa for a three-day meeting. "He was a very pleasant gentleman and nice with the staff," says. Mr. Skelley.

As dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Ratzinger stayed at Vallombrosa February 9-12, 1999, for a meeting with doctrinal officials from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. On February 13 he gave a lecture on "Culture and Truth" at St. Patrick's Seminary in Menlo Park.

During his stay at Vallombrosa, Cardinal Ratzinger occupied an apartment in the old mansion on the property, originally the home of Edwin Hopkins, nephew of Mark Hopkins.

In 1947, the Archdiocese of San Francisco purchased the 17-acre property, part of which is now occupied by Nativity School.

The mansion was originally used as a retreat center for women. A new administration building and housing wing were built in 1962 with two additional wings added later. Today the center can accommodate 100 guests. It is open to nonprofit and business, as well as religious, groups.

Carrie LaBriola is director of Vallombrosa Center, located at 250 Oak Grove Ave. in Menlo Park.

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