Canonization: Fr Lombardi briefing on numbers of official delegations and other details
(Vatican Radio) The Director of the Holy See’s press office, Father Federico Lombardi
gave another briefing on Thursday to journalists where he gave details about official
delegations scheduled to attend both the prayer vigil on Saturday night and the canonization
Mass on Sunday morning.
Father Lombardi told journalists that over 90 official
delegations from various countries plus 24 heads of state or royalty are due to attend
the prayer vigil. More than a single prayer vigil, there will be a series of prayer
vigils being held in at least 11 churches located in the central area of Rome in a
number of different languages including English.
Turning the Canonization
ceremony, Father Lombardi said as many as 150 cardinals and 1000 bishops will be concelebrating
with Pope Francis. 93 official delegations from various countries and international
organisations plus 24 heads of State are set to attend the Mass. Representatives
from other major religions will also be attending the canonization ceremony including
many Orthodox, Anglican, Jewish and Moslem officials.
Father Lombardi said
he could not confirm the attendance of the Pope Emeritus at the Canonization Mass.
He said Benedict XVI had been invited of course but it had been left up to him to
decide whether or not to come.