(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”.
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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.
Text from Vatican Radio website
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