Can anyone provide information about the Papal Audience? They will be holding one while I am there despite it being in August. I was wondering if it is worth going to or should I try to do other things during that time? I'm guessing that the Basilica and Vatican museums are packed if I wait to go afterwards with everyone else, so should I try to do something else this day and avoid going to the Vatican on Wednesday? Also, do you know if they are in English? Or just Italian? I'm trying to find information online, but it is difficult! Any information is appreciated!
Posted by
New York City
62 posts
I attended one and it is nothing short of amazing and inspiring.
Here in America, I am use to ultra-tight security. So much so that one evening, while strolling, we were all barricaded from going any further as President Obama was being driven past us - in a car with tinted windows and half a dozen police motorcyclists around him.
Imagine my surprise when I was at Vatican City and saw the Pope ride by in an open topped convertible. He smiled, waved and blessed the crowd. He actually looked happy to see us there! Then, he spoke (it was translated into several languages), and blessed the crowd. A moment I will never forget and I heartily recommend you take advantage of it.
Posted by
Edmonds, WA 🌨 ☂
12037 posts
This may answer some of your questions from the logistical/informational standpoint.
if it is worth going to or should I try to do other things during that time?
No one here can answer that question for you.
I certainly had nothing better to do the morning I went and while there is still a lot of Rome to be seen, I have NO regret about my choice.
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
16698 posts
If you haven't found this yet, this might give you a little more info:
The "worth" question is entirely up to you. Devout Catholics for whom a glimpse of the Holy Father would be meaningful is one thing. If just wanting to observe what the audience is all about is another. If seeing Pope Francis - from a distance or maybe not-so - and having the experience of a large group service is not deeply important to you, then choosing other options might be a better use of your time.
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
Where is gracialynne when we need her?