Bashing victim Lauren Huxley has described her meeting with the Pope as an unbelievable honour she never would have imagined receiving.
Each of the 10 young people spoke to Pope Benedict, explaining their story and accepting his blessing.
Lauren, wearing a black coat and grey dress, walked slowly to the front of the church, her father by her side.
He kept a supporting arm around her while he explained to the Pope Lauren's story – of how she had been bashed and left for dead three years ago.
Now 21, Lauren says it was an unbelievable experience to meeting the pontiff.
“I felt so special,” she said.
“It was a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
Lauren Huxley was among a group of youth who had overcome adversity, including drug addiction and violence.
Pope Benedict labelled the group Ambassadors of Hope.