Welcome to a colorful and crowded square that will greet the first Regina Caeli of Pope Leone XIV. At St. Peter’s Square, 150,000 people from all over the world are expected to come and meet the new Pontiff. Among them will be artists from band groups and popular entertainment ready to celebrate their Jubilee, made even more special by the election of Robert Francis Prevost.
Agenzia ANSAWars and evils to be defeated, waiting for the Regina Caeli – Vatican News – Ansa.it
Leone XIV will appear from the Loggia delle Benedizioni (ANSA)
Preparations for the influx of faithful have led to a comprehensive security plan, involving thousands of law enforcement officers and the well-established network of volunteers who patrol St. Peter’s Square and the surrounding streets. Area clean-ups will begin in the coming hours, and a double security check will be required for entry into the square: first at the outer pre-filters and then at the checkpoints equipped with metal detectors.
The Jubilee of the bands kicked off yesterday with numerous performances in 31 squares in the center of the Capital. “We have invaded Rome – joked Monsignor Rino Fisichella, enthusiastic delegate of the Holy See for the Jubilee. – It’s the beauty of our people’s folklore, the beauty of being here.” A city in celebration, with music and entertainment, blending showmanship with prayer. Artists from around the world have brought color to the streets of the Eternal City, parading towards the Holy Door.
“For many, it’s a dream come true,” comments Maria, a teacher in the Mexican band “Panteras Rebolledo Marching Band” from Coapetec, Veracruz. “It’s a true blessing to be here – echoes director Jesus, dressed in white. – Music is our world, but above all, it’s a gift from God.” Drums and guitars will also accompany the first Sunday of Pope Robert Francis Prevost. Large screens will be set up in St. Peter’s Square and along via della Conciliazione, as was done for the funeral of Pope Francis, allowing all faithful to follow Leone XIV’s first Regina Caeli from the central Loggia. It will serve as a dress rehearsal for the next major event, the installation of the new Pontiff, scheduled exactly one week later, on Sunday, May 18.
For that occasion, there will be over five thousand law enforcement officers, specialized personnel for the escort of foreign delegations, anti-drone devices, snipers, canine units, bomb squads, two thousand volunteers, and 500 stewards.
Reproduction reserved © Copyright ANSA
