Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Pope Francis
VATICAN CITY (April 26, 2014) — I’ve been in Rome for 36 hours and I have completely forgotten to blog. Yes, it’s been that good! Best news first: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will concelebrate the canonization Mass with Pope Francis tomorrow. It will be the day of four popes and two new saints in about 16 hours.
After adjusting to the six-hour time difference on Wednesday, I woke up Thursday morning and went straight to the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross for a C-FAM/Alliance Defending Freedom conference exploring the pontificate of John Paul II, the soon-to-be saint. Speakers included papal biographer George Weigel, Ambassador Michael Novak, Charmaine Yoest of Americans United for Life, all moderated by C-FAM’s Austin Ruse.
St. Peter’s Square is bustling, awaiting the millions here for the canonization of John Paul II and John XXIII
After a brisk 8-mile run along the Tiber this morning, I waded into the growing crowds streaming into St. Peter’s Square. Estimates range from 1 million to 5 million pilgrims, so it will be a fascinating night — especially since it has already started raining here.
Security will empty St. Peter’s Square of pilgrims (some of whom have camped out for most of the day) so they can secure it for the event, which is drawing several heads of state — including the president of Poland.
Our media contingent will be led into the Square at 4:30 am (10:30 pm Eastern Saturday night), so this guy will need a triple espresso when it’s over!
Watch for photos on my Facebook page!
PATRICK NOVECOSKY is the editor of this blog.
