Papal Audience

Their website states you should not expect a reply:

If your email or fax went through, please presume that we have received your request and will put tickets aside for you. If you are concerned to re-confirm your request you can telephone us here in Rome, however this is NOT NECESSARY and we prefer that you do not call.

I attended the Wednesday papal audience in May 2006. I arrived in Rome on Tuesday afternoon after the long flight across the ocean. I checked into my room and then headed to Santa Susanna to pick up my prearranged tickets. Everything went smoothly. One of the resident priests was sitting a table distributing tickets. I'm pretty sure that if I had needed more tickets than requested, I would have been able to get them. Bear in mind that the audience is in St. Peter's Square and it's a huge area with thousands of folding chairs.

I don't recall precisely what time the audience began but I'm thinking it may have been 10:00 a.m. I got there at least 90 minutes early and got a seat about one-third of the way back. If you can sit near one of the railings that divide St. Peter's Square into sections, you may get a better view of the Pope. The popemobile does a tour of the entire square driving through various sections of the square.

We did the same as you this past May. We went to the Church, the priest had our names and number of tickets we requested. It was very easy. It does make you a bit nervous not to hear back from them but don't worry they will be there.

As for the auidence, they suggest you come around 8am. Also, like the others suggested try to be near the outside of one of the gated sections so you can see the Pope.

Have a great trip!

You guys are the greatest. We've been wondering and praying, is it going to happen? is it going to happen? It just now dawned on me, its going to happen.

We're going to dejetlag (if thats a word) for a few days in Sorrento before heading north to Rome for the audience.

Thank you very much for the replies. Keepem cummin!!!

You'll need to find out if the Holy Father will be in Rome. He is usually at Castel Gandolfo his summer residence until mid September. He does do audiences there and you do not need a ticket. It's about 10 miles outside of Rome and you can take a taxi for about 20 Euros.

Looks like I'm going to finish my own thread. Santa Susanna sent a confirmation. They are holding tickets for me. I don't have to tell you guys what a joy it is to see a trip come together. Loose ends are tying up very nicely. God Be Praised!!!