Pope’s daily Mass now open to Rome parishioners

December 27, 2013 - The morning Masses of Pope Francis in the Vatican, that have been attended largely by Vatican employees so far, will from January be open to the faithful of Rome parishes. Holy See’s spokesman, Fr. Federico Lombardi confirmed a news report on the initiative, saying the Vicar of Rome Diocese, Cardinal Agostino Vallini will advise parish priests about how to make requests to allow groups of some 25 persons to attend the papal Mass. In the tradition of the first Pontiff, St. Peter, the Pope is the Bishop of Rome Diocese as well as the head of the worldwide Catholic Church. Until he is able to visit all the parishes of his diocese, Pope Francis will at least have a representation from each parish, Fr. Lombardi added.