The International Opticians Association has received blessings from the Pope as Director of Development Elaine Grisdale is granted an audience alongside optician Alessandro Spiezia and Amelie Morel, President of SILMO.
The International Opticians Association (IOA) is a non denominational organisation which welcomes members of all faiths and none.
Meeting the Pope along with Elaine was optician Alessandro Spiezia who is the recipient of the Special Recognition Award from the IOA, a recognition to his over 50 years of commitment, professionalism and dedication to the profession, which was presented at SILMO in 2019. Alessandro has been the optician to a number of Pontiffs, most recently Pope Francis. He said, “Francesco welcomed us with his smile as if we were his children. This serene and friendly face will be the image that we will always carry with us and that will help us to overcome all difficulties. For me, it is a great honour to be able to share this with special friends and family who share a love for the profession to which I have dedicated my life.”
Director Elaine Grisdale FBDO FAAO explains, “We were delighted to be given the opportunity to meet Pope Francis and talk to him about the valuable work that the IOA does to raise standards in eye care and eye wear around the world. I would like to thank Alessandro Spiezia for his organisation and kind invitation for this once in a lifetime experience.”
Foto ©Vatican Media
Topic: Optical News
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