Kelly Clarkson Performs Ave Maria For The Pope

April 21, 2008 8:43 a.m. EST

New York, NY (CNS) - Kelly Clarkson has been "blessed" after she performed for The Pope in New York Saturday.

The first "American Idol" crown winner, who had been invited to sing for the Roman Catholic father, admits the call was a dream come true for her.

She had performed "Ave Maria" for Pope Benedict XVI and thousands of Catholics and devotees at the Saint Joseph Seminary for the youth rally. The pop rocker donned a modest blue dress and tied her hair back into a simple bun.

She says, "I was so excited to be asked to sing for the Pope. It's always been a dream of mine to perform Ave Maria."

"To have that dream come true on such a special occasion is truly a blessing."