(Vatican Radio) A youth gathering on April 22 at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran
and a prayer vigil in all of Rome’s parishes on the eve of the highly anticipated
canonizations Popes John XXIII and John Paul II. These are two of the major events
leading up to the April 27 canonizations of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II.
At
a press conference held at the Vatican Monday, the Holy See unveiled some of the events
in view of the April 27 canonizations of these much loved Popes. The upcoming canonizations
were described as “a true festival of faith” and a “festival of holiness”.
Cardinal
Agostino Vallini, Vicar for the Diocese of Rome, urged Christians to live this time
in preparation in a more spiritually intense way.
Monsignor Giulio Dellavite,
secretary general of the Curia of Bergamo, Pope John XXIII’s home diocese, said the
Diocese of Bergamo has set up some charitable projects in Haiti, Albania and Bergamo
to mark the canonization. As well, the 900 priests of the diocese have made donations
to create a fund for unemployed persons.
Several media projects have also
been set up for the event, namely a website -- – and a twitter account -- @2popesaints.
A Facebook and YouTube account will be set up. And an app – Santo Subito – will also
be up and running in the coming days.
Father Federico Lombardi told reporters
that the Vatican does not know the number of faithful who will attend the canonization
and repeated that tickets are not necessary for the event, which will be held in St.
Peter’s Square.
However, about 1,000 clerics, including cardinals, bishops
and priests will concelebrate. About 700 priests will distribute Communion in the
square. He told reporters the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, may attend, though his
presence will depend on how the retired pontiff is feeling in more than one month’s
time from now.
On the Monday following the canonizations, a mass of thanksgiving
will be celebrated in St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal Angelo Comastri will preside.
Report by Laura Ieraci Listen: