SEEING BENEDICT IN PERSON

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Unicorn	Re: An Autumn Audience	#361	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 1479 12/18/07 01:36:34	Benodette, I was able to see your photos last night, before the RFC server went slightly loco and kicked me offline. Needless to say, my friend, you brought me back to that unforgettably day in May, when I was able to kiss the hand of the Vicar of Christ. And yes, now I am "homesick" for Rome all over again! *Quote:* He acknowledged every one, always identifying the source of the response and offering different waves and endearing facial expressions every time ... He has done this so often now, but he never seems to find it tedious, or if he does it doesnt show. The very loving way in which Il Papa acknowledges all the national groups is one reason why I am always so frustrated that the CTV cameras are so seldom focused on his face during this part of the GA. In the handful of times when they were, it was so heartwarming to see the joy in Il Papa's face, and endearing though he always is, it is especially moving to see his face lit up with happiness in these moments. Does he ever find it tedious? I don't think so. Innately shy and reserved though he may be, I think the pastoral -- and indeed, paternal -- side of him finds great joy in "meeting" these members of his flock. And indeed, the good cheer of the people at the GA is infectious -- I daresay that he will always find it both inspiring and humbling to be the object of such warm-hearted and open affection, in much the same way that a loving father finds great joy in the love of his children. *Quote:* ... he is always absolutely charming and focused and the essence of kindness no matter how tired or pressured he may be. For a few moments you have his full attention and it is inspiring, as Unicorn can also testify. It is definitely an unforgettable experience -- the experience of my lifetime. To look into those phenomenal eyes is to look into a light so bright that you feel as if you must blink and look away. But when the Vicar of Christ looks straight into your eyes, you cannot help but be held by such a direct and intense gaze. It is almost as if he can see into your very soul -- anyone who looks into those eyes would feel inspired to speak the truth ... to speak one's heart. *Quote:* The Pope has a vey mobile face and expressive eyes. He is one of those people who talks with his eyes ... Something of this can be seen in some of the recorded interviews of Cardinal Ratzinger. Close up it is very engaging. It is not usually visible when he is delivering his homilies or speeches. His movements and expressions then are very economical and restrained. It is a characteristic which invariably appears when he is interacting with individuals and perhaps this why he has been called cold by Zeffirelli. I suppose that being Italian, Mr. Zeffirelli is accustomed to those rather expansive gestures that Italians are fond of making when they get particularly "revved up" during a conversation. I remember during one of my bus rides around Rome, everyone on the bus was startled when we heard the sound of squealing tires and breaking glass behind us -- two cars had collided. Thank goodness the drivers weren't injured, but as the bus was pulling away, we saw the drivers leap out of their cars, and begin chattering away, throwing their hands up in the air as the Italians are wont to do. This is something one can never expect from Benedict XVI, being very Bavarian; despite all his years in Rome, he will always retain the manners and customs of his people. This doesn't mean that he's a cold person -- far from it. One only has to listen to, or read, his words to sense the flame of his genius and the fire of his faith. Many "reserved" people tend to have "speaking eyes" ... because they are, by nature, economical of gesture, the passions of their spirit are best seen in their eyes, the "windows to the soul". More often than not, these are the persons whose depth of mind and spirit are truly profound -- as we can see all too well in Il Papa himself! Benodette, thank you for bringing me back yet again to the Rome of my heart. Your photos are eloquent proof that Benedict XVI's gentle smile, gracious warmth, ineffable sweetness and phenomenal eyes are beyond anything that any "image maker" can ever come up with. Because the photos you share are taken by one who truly loves and respects the Vicar of Christ, they are the ones that best show his innate holiness of heart and soul. They are better than anything the best "image makers" can come up with, because they show the truth, and the truth that is Benedict XVI's beatific spirit is beautiful indeed. Who needs Franco Zeffirelli, when we -- and Il Papa -- have you? -------------------- Proud to be Papist! "Each of us is the result of a thought of God. Each of us is willed, each of us is loved ..." - Benedict XVI "He knocks at the door, he is close to us and thus true joy is close, which is stronger than all the sorrows in the world, and in our life." - Benedict XVI
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rcesq	Re: An Autumn Audience	#362	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 1780 12/18/07 04:16:43 Moderator	Wonderful portraits, Benodette. Perhaps Zeffirelli has been watching the Pope only in his official speeches or homilies inside St. Peter's or similar enclosed venues, because at events such as the audiences at the Vatican and other large ceremonies held outdoors, there are usually huge television screens where you can see even the tiniest crinkle of a smile 10-feet wide!
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Benodette	Pope blesses sick child	#363	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 6214 12/23/07 06:02:58	A touching story of how a family felt when the Pope blessed their sick child. After attending a general audience with Pope Benedict XVI alongside 17,000 other pilgrims, Kenna Seiler and her daughter Rachael suddenly found themselves face to face with the Holy Father. It is a bit of a blur," Seiler said. "The pope got out of his chair and blessed Rachael. It gives me goose bumps just thinking about it. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience." The Seilers' Italian vacation turned into much more than The Woodlands family, including dad Michael and 7-year-old son Ethan, ever expected. They received tickets to a general audience at the Vatican in early December where scripture was read in several languages and the pope addressed the crowd gathered before him. Certain groups were introduced, including the nearly 25 pilgrims from Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Conroe the Seilers were with. Rachael, 3, has Rett Syndrome and was seated in the area for the sick in the front row along with three other children, Seiler said. Rett Syndrome is a unique neurodevelopmental disorder that begins to show its effects in infancy or early childhood, according to rettsyndrome.org. RS is a genetic disorder of developmental arrest or failure of brain maturation and mainly affects girls. Audience with Holy Father: Pope blesses Woodlands mom, daughter
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Benodette	Re: The Pope Consecrates a Roman Church	#364	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 6214 01/03/08 18:25:36	On 16 December 2007 - Gaudete Sunday - a crisp, clear and very cold Roman morning, the Pope came to a parish on the southern edge of Rome to consecrate a new church. Santa Maria del Rosario ai Martiri Portuensi is off the Via Magliana and close to the Paesetto della Madonna - the retreat house on the hill where Cardinal Ratzinger was staying in November 1991 when he heard that his sister Maria had suffered a serious stroke in Regensburg. Santa Maria del Rosario also stands on a hill above the coastal plain. On the morning of the consecration the north wind which had been blowing around Rome for a few days cut through the open space in front of the new brick church like a knife. Benodette This church is constructed on the site where Papa Wojtyla celebrated Mass on 8 November 1998 on a pastoral visit to the community. The parish has grown enormously, to about 21,000, and is home to many immigrant families as well as to Italians. The architect has created an elegant and airy space which is both dignified and practical. The floors are marble and the ceiling echoes the coving found in some of the17th churches in Rome. For the last ten years the parish priest has been a jolly Irishman from the Missionary Fraternity of St Carlo Borromeo. The day of the consecration was the culmination of a great deal of hard work by many parishioners who spared no effort to ensure that everything was finished and perfect on the day. It was an immensely special event for the pastor, the people and for everyone present. We arrived at the appointed hour and had to wait for about 10 minutes while final security checks and preparations were made. It was a very long ten minutes because of the exceptional freezing cold, but everyone was very relaxed and friendly. Once inside, with the doors closed, everyone began to warm up and look around the new church. Benodette The east wall of the chancel is painted a rich orange red and the crucifix stands out dramatically against the dark background. The other walls are white and the building is flooded with light from the large windows. The picture above was taken after the service was over. The security was efficient but low key. For example, there was no solid barrier along the aisle. A simple red velvet rope was draped from seat to seat. The sense was that this was a pastoral visit of a Bishop to his diocese. As we awaited the Popes arrival the whole atmosphere was one of joyful anticipation. Benodette Guido Marini and his assistant began rehearsing the people who were to participate in the Mass. Benodette Cardinal Ruini arrived and received warm applause as he walked down the aisle. He spent a little time in the chancel and then made his way back to the door to await the Pope. He stopped to play with some small children and he was very sweet with them. Whatever it was he said to them he caused giggles of delight. Benodette The sound of a helicopter hovering overhead and then the roar of police motorcycles announced the arrival of the Pope. There was applause from the people outside and a few minutes later a blast of cold air swept into the building as the big double doors were opened for the Pope and his entourage. Benodette Dressed in his white cassock the Pope began to make his way very slowly down the aisle. He tried to shake hands with as many people as possible on either side, reaching into the rows to try and ensure nobody was left out. Benodette It took him quite a while to make his way through the church and the immense joy on peoples faces as they welcomed him to their parish must have been a considerable reward for the time and patience he gave to the task. Benodette His hands were freezing, so we were not the only ones feeling the cold, but he looked genuinely happy, as if he was really pleased to be there among the people as their pastor and bishop. Eventually he made his way to the sacristy. After a little while the main doors were opened again and the procession entered. The Pope followed, vested now in a golden chasuble, which glittered a little, over a lace alb and wearing Papa Wojtylas gold and white mitre which seems to have become something of a favourite. Benodette There was no hand shaking this time. The Pope nodded and smiled and blessed the congregation and proceeded to take his place on the simple white marble seat to the right of the altar. Benodette He was welcomed to the parish by the pastor Father Gerry McCarthy. The Pope listened intently. Benodette After the short address the Pope and the pastor embraced with great warmth. Benodette The architect approached the Pope and symbolically handed him the keys of the building. The service began with the Liturgy of the Word. Benodette After the Gospel came the sublime Liturgy of the Saints. In his homily the Pope thanked Don Macarzy for his welcome. Benodette It was sweet because the pronunciation of the Irish name was impossible for him and everyone smiled affectionately at his Bavarian rendition of it. He went on to recall the significance of the district in which the parish is established. Nearby is the site of the catacombs of Generosa where three young brothers who died in the persecution of 303 are buried. The Pope said the three young martyrs should be an inspiration to the parishioners to keep the faith. Benodette The consecration began with sprinkling the altar and the congregation with holy water. The Pope then placed the relics into the altar. The box contained the relics of Saint Columba, the Irish saint who founded the monastery of Bobbio, St Carlo Borromeo and St Maria Faustina Kowalska. The Pope then said the prayer of dedication. Benodette Having blessed the holy oil the Pope was divested of his chasuble. Benodette This operation was not without difficulty and after Guido Marini had removed his pallium the Pope floundered a bit under the fabric as the assistant tried to lift the chasuble clear of his head. Benodette Benodette Benodette Eventually the Pope emerged wearing the light overall that he also wears on Holy Thursday for the washing of the feet. Something resembling an apron was tied around his waist and there was a gauntlet over the lower part of his right sleeve. Benodette Benodette Dressed for business the Pope went to the altar and poured the holy oil in the centre and in all four corners. He then had to spread it over the entire surface of the altar with his hand. Benodette Benodette It looked a rather messy operation and he got splatters of oil on his overall. He didnt seem to mind and back in his seat he washed his hands and removed the oily gauntlet. Benodette He was vested again, quite swiftly, and Guido Marini put back his pallium and pinned it in place. Benodette Benodette The last stage of the consecration was for the Pope to cense the altar. Benodette As the smoke rose in great clouds it enveloped the crucifix, and then something really extraordinary happened. A shaft of sunlight came streaming through the window and lit up the altar. The smoke was caught in the sunbeams and the Popes chasuble glittered gold. The crucifix cast a shadow on the wall, making a double image. Benodette It was breathtaking and extremely moving. People became quite tearful with emotion. One felt that yes, something very important had happened to that building it had now become a church, and the change was palpable. Benodette The Pope sat quietly on his marble chair, illuminated by the sunlight, watching as the altar was dressed with the cloth, the candlesticks and the crucifix and all the lights in the building were switched on. Benodette The cross was placed in the centre of the altar flanked by six low candlesticks. Benodette When the task was complete the Pope moved to the altar to begin the celebration of Mass and everyone was drawn in. Benodette It was a very prayerful communion and I think the Pope sensed it too, that everyone was with him in exactly the right way. It was undoubtedly one of the most memorable services I have attended in a very long time and I felt really privileged to be present. At the end, as the Pope walked back down the aisle, he looked as elated and as jubilant as the rest of us. Benodette Benodette Benodette Benodette Benodette He went to the old church to greet the children while we left the building and gathered outside where his car was waiting. Benodette It was still cold out there, but the Pope eventually appeared, wearing his red cape over his cassock. He stopped and gave a short address at the top of the steps, thanking everyone for waiting in the cold and wishing us a good Sunday. Benodette Then he went to his car. The pastor, Cardinal Ruini and the bishops said goodbye, Georg Ganswaen removed the cape, and he disappeared inside. Benodette It was sad to see him drive away, but as he did so the two bells, John Paul II and Benedict XVI, rang a farewell peal from the campanile. Benodette For a few hours the Pope had been a Bishop and a pastor in a small community with hardly any of the protocol and commotion which attends his public appearances in the Vatican. These pastoral visits to Roman parishes were frequent events for Papa Wojtyla. When he was well, he visited a parish almost every Sunday when he was in Rome, and the visits were as fulfilling for him as they were for the parishioners. It is a pity that the Pope cant do more of them because he seemed to find this visit very uplifting too. Benodette
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mag6nideum	Re: The Pope Consecrates a Roman Church	#365	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 1549 01/04/08 14:18:58	What a beautiful, moving day this must have been. Benodette, I can quite understand why you have experienced this service as one of the most memorable in a very long time. Thank you for sharing your photo's and sentiments of this special day. The Pope indeed seemed joyful, open, warm and relaxed! And, oh yes, the extraordinary pic of the "double" crucifix is very moving. I hope you'll one day be able to make a selection of your best photo's of Benedict for a publication. We've already seen some beauties.
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Unicorn	Re: The Pope Consecrates a Roman Church	#366	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 1479 01/11/08 01:09:38	Benodette, I was finally able to see your photos last night, over a dial-up connection! What can I say, cara amica, except that you are so blessed to have been at this particular event. There is something so very special indeed about the consecration of a new church. I must admit, while I much prefer the older churches, this new church truly has a certain air of serenity about it. I don't know which of your photos I loved the most, the ones of Il Papa smiling and clearly very happy, or the ones of him looking very serious and sombre as he spreads the oil over the altar. (That wonderful photo of the cross and its shadow is truly a "keeper"! I can only imagine how moving it must have been for you, to see it with your own eyes.) One can see how very focused he was on this particular aspect of the consecration ceremonies. This is such a pastoral event, and it is evident that he takes his pastoral duties very seriously. It is always a joy to see him so happy -- I especially love your photos where his eyes are alight with happiness. I think that of all the events he attends, it is these relatively smaller gatherings, where he can really "reach out" to his flock, that he enjoys the most. Far from being the academic in the ivory tower, I think that Joseph Ratzinger is a pastor at heart. -------------------- Proud to be Papist! "Each of us is the result of a thought of God. Each of us is willed, each of us is loved ..." - Benedict XVI "He knocks at the door, he is close to us and thus true joy is close, which is stronger than all the sorrows in the world, and in our life." - Benedict XVI
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Benodette	Re: The Pope Consecrates a Roman Church	#367	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 6214 01/11/08 12:07:59	Thanks to Mag and Unicorn for their kind comments. This was something different from the usual formal papal events and I hope I have been able to convey something of the special atmosphere which filled that quite modest modern building during the popes visit. *Quote:* I think that of all the events he attends, it is these relatively smaller gatherings, where he can really "reach out" to his flock, that he enjoys the most. Far from being the academic in the ivory tower, I think that Joseph Ratzinger is a pastor at heart. Unicorn I think you are right that the Pope enjoys the smaller events when he can connect more easily with people without all the hysteria generated by big gatherings. That must be pretty overwhelming at times. I also think his abilities as a pastor have developed tremendously as he has matured. As a young man his shyness made it much more difficult for him to connect on a personal level with people outside his immediate circle. You will recall from his memoirs that Joseph Ratzinger found his first experiences of pastoral work quite challenging. He was very happy to return to the academic world where his great gifts as a teacher soon became obvious. His shyness is still a part of his character - it is part of his charm but he manages it much better now and he is clearly a wonderfully gentle pastor. When he was still a Cardinal he was often able to be just a pastor during vacations in Pentling for example, and in numerous other parishes in Germany. It is a pity that cant really happen now. Cardinals can retire and help out in parishes in their retirement. Popes cannot at least not yet.
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Benodette	Journalist Andreas Englisch has an audience with the Pope	#368	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 6214 01/13/08 01:38:39	Vatican Pool The good news reached Andreas Englisch at the beginning of the year in his office on the Via della Conciliazione - he was invited to a papal audience in the Apostolic Palace. It was a great and rare honour because the Popes time is more precious than gold. The invitation said he should come in suitable clothing obviously he would not go in jeans. Sister Giovanna of the Vatican press office accompanied him to the Bronze door, the main entrance of the Vatican. The Swiss guards saluted and then he went upstairs to the courtyard of St Damasus. This part of the Vatican is reserved for state guests. He went by elevator to the second floor of the apostolic palace. In the elevator there hangs a silver amulet of St Christopher, the patron saint of travellers. In the room before the Sala Clementina he is able to leave his coat and he is told by the Swiss Guard to leave his cell phone. Waiting in the adjoining room he notices that the Vatican has become smoke free. In the waiting room outside the Popes library there was always an ashtray. Many of the men around Pope John Paul II were heavy smokers - his photographer Arturo Mari, his press spokesman Joaqun Navarro-Valls, and Bishop Renato Boccardo, who managed his travels, were all smokers. Now there are no ashtrays. Georg Ganswaen arrives and wishes him a Happy New Year. Paolo Gabriele, the butler, prepares the gifts. Everybody receives a Rosary. On the same day the Pope also received Boni Yayi, President of Benin. Then at last they enter the library. The whole week Englisch has been asked how the Pope is. There were rumours that he had a cold, that he was not well, that he was tired. Englisch recalled that in the weeks after his election he was stressed and fatigued and his hands were cold. This time he notices that his hands are warm. He does not cough and he appears to be in perfect health. He knelt and kissed the fishermans ring, the seal of the Popes. It was, he said, very touching to kiss the ring knowing that it would be destroyed on the death of the Pope. The Pope welcomed him and said I am glad to see you. Because he knows he has little time in the Popes presence Englisch asks almost immediately if he will go again to Germany, this time to Berlin, the German capital. We will have to see he answers thoughtfully but I would like to go to Germany. They shake hands. When Englisch last asked the question, on the way back to Rome from Munich, the Pope had been rather melancholy. When asked what his plans were the Pope had said I do not know how much time the Lord will give me. Then the visit is over, and Englisch is given a Rosary together with greetings for his family.
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Benodette	Re: Consistory for the Creation of new Cardinals - 2007	#369	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 6214 02/25/08 10:07:54	I am afraid my accounts here are now hopelessly out of sequence. Nevertheless I have decided to post something about the consistory in November 2007 because, apart from being an important event in itself, it marked a major change of style because it was the first major celebration organised by the new MC, Guido Marini. I shall split into sections as it was really three separate events The consistory for the creation of new cardinals took place over two days 24/25 November 2007. The previous day the piazza was scattered with newsmen, TV cameras and photographers trying to catch the cardinals on their way to the Paul VI hall for a pre-consistory meeting with the Pope. The window of Gamarelli, the clerical tailors just off Piazza della Minerva displayed the scarlet robes required by a prince of the church, including a gorgeous silk taffeta cape which would be wonderful for a grand party. Benodette The final decision on where the ceremony would take place was not taken until a day or so before the event. Early on Thursday evening, just as the sun was beginning to go down, those who were actively participating in the ceremonial aspects of the service gathered on the Segrato to receive their instructions from Guido Marini. Benodette This was to be his first big event as papal MC. When Marini arrived everyone decamped into the basilica. Benodette Wisely, it had been decided to hold the ceremony inside. Rome in November rarely has balmy weather and the forecast for the following day did not promise sunshine. Inside there was a quick rehearsal and positions were marked out ready for the team in charge of the basilica to arrange the chairs. Benodette Outside, in the chilly evening, the Swiss Guards stood stolidly under the Arch of Bells, braving the gusty wind which always seems to whistle through that gap. Benodette The piazza looked stunning, rimmed by Berninis glorious colonnade, which was washed gold by the floodlights. Benodette Outside the Popes old apartment a kind lady was feeding the stray cats. Benodette Above, the Pope was in his study while the lights blazed in the kitchen as his dinner was prepared. I wonder how often he looks down into that little piazza with nostalgia and a longing for a simpler life when he was free to feed and pet those stray cats. Benodette Saturday morning was chilly but dry. The basilica had been transformed from the dim and echoing space of Thursday evening into the grand baroque interior familiar to anyone who sees papal ceremonies on the TV. There was a very obvious addition to the usual arrangement under the cupola - an absolutely enormous carved and gilded throne stood in front of the altar. Benodette It looked, as it was, a museum piece from the age of papal monarchy. Many people noticed it and there was quite a lot of comment, both favourable and unfavourable. When all the lights came on, it stood there, gleaming and intimidating, and looking far too big for the daintily proportioned Pope Benedict. The basilica was full with a very colourful congregation, reflecting the national groups accompanying the new cardinals. The Iraqis were especially vocal, waving their flag and ululating whenever they recognised one of the clergy. Benodette Cardinal Bertone tried to hush them as he walked by, but to no effect. There was almost a carnival atmosphere as we waited for the entrance of the procession. As the processional cross appeared at the top of the aisle and began to slowly make its way down to the altar everybody stood up. The new cardinals walked slowly by, warmly applauded by their supporters. The applause swelled as the Pope came down the aisle. He was a blur of gold on gold. It was a complete contrast to his last consistory in March 2006 when he had worn choir dress with the ermine trimmed red velvet mozzetta. Benodette The Pope was wearing the gold cope with the antique edging which he has worn several times before, but never before had the edges been held away from him by two richly clad cope bearers, revealing lots of gold threaded lace. He looked rather like a butterfly about to take flight. The mitre was very tall and very gold and had belonged to the Blessed Pius IX - Pope 1846-1878. Benodette Even his girdle was gold. The lovely pectoral cross, set with pearls and emeralds, hung strangely low over his waist. A gold clasp with deep blue enamel held the cope in place. He has also worn that on previous occasions. The Pope was full of smiles but I expect he noticed a few jaws dropping. Once at the altar he mounted the steps, bowed, and went around to be enthroned. When he sat down he almost disappeared into the gilded carving. It was difficult to see where he ended and the chair began. Benodette A pool of lace gathered around his neat little red shoes. He occasionally uses this chair in the Apostolic Palace and it looks no more comfortable there, but he is usually wearing choir dress so he is rather more visible. My first thought was that it was entirely too much of a good thing. No matter how gorgeous each item might be in itself, together it was too much to be in good taste. I know others disagree about this, and we have had discussions about this on the Papal Clothing thread, but I can only offer my reactions on actually seeing this style for the first time in the basilica. When the Pope stood up without his mitre his luminous white hair was a beacon of silver in midst of all the gilding. Benodette The service was almost entirely in Latin, including the readings. The exception was the prayers, which were offered in several European languages, and the Popes homily. Benodette In his homily the Pope specifically mentioned Iraq and how calling the Patriarch of the Chaldean Church to enter the College of Cardinals was a concrete expression of his spiritual nearness and affection for Christians in that troubled land. He also reminded the new cardinals that their red robes symbolised their willingness to die for the faith. Following the homily the new cardinals made their profession of faith and loyalty. A priest took his place near Pope holding a tray of the red birettas. Benodette The choir sang Tue es Petrus and each new cardinal approached the Pope and knelt before him to receive the red hat. Benodette Benodette As they stood up again applause came from different parts of the basilica. The loudest welcome was undoubtedly for Cardinal Delly who received his own unique hat as a member of the Chaldean Church. Everyone greeted him with great enthusiasm. Benodette Benodette The Pope stood up to bestow the hat on the aged and infirm Cardinal Umberto Betti OFM, the former rector of the Pontifical Lateran University. Benodette Benodette The 85 year old Franciscan had to be supported by two priests. Nevertheless, with his supporters, he made it up the steps to stand in front of the Pope and down again, and he was warmly applauded. Benodette When the cardinals returned to their places they were embraced and congratulated by their brother cardinals. After the prayers in several languages and the Pater Noster the Pope stood to deliver the blessing and the procession formed to leave the basilica. Benodette The new cardinals were greeted with more applause as they left and each one shyly acknowledged their own enthusiastic groups. Cardinal Foley looked very modest as his supporters cheered and Cardinal Delly looked almost embarrassed at the enormous eruption of applause and ululating as he started to make his way down the aisle wearing his own special version of the cardinals hat. The Pope, accompanied by the chaps holding out the edges of the cope, approached again. Benodette The Cope Cometh quipped one of my companions. Having been surprised by this arrangement on his way in I took a closer look as the Pope left to see if the cope had been lengthened and formed a train. It was clearly the same length it had always been so the cope-bearers were there for effect. To my eye it looked archaic and a bit silly. Again, I accept that there are those who disagree. I have said elsewhere that this ceremony gave the impression of being theatre and on further reflection, and after seeing more ceremonies in this vein, I have not changed my mind. Benodette Interestingly, when Joseph Ratzinger himself received his cardinals hat from Pope Paul VI the Pope was wearing choir dress. DPA The Pope apparently went outside the basilica to greet those in the square from the top of the steps. Transferring the ceremony inside meant that many people had to watch it on the big TV screens in the piazza. As we emerged from the basilica it was beginning to rain, so it was a good thing we had been inside. The rain stopped after a while but it was a damp and dull winter day in Rome. The kind of day to go for lunch in a warm and friendly restaurant and that is what most people did. Benodette
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letmel	Re: Consistory for the Creation of new Cardinals - 2007	#370	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 732 02/26/08 16:41:11	Thank you Benodette for your great account and the pictures . I love the ones of the Piazza especially. Quote: " The Pope was full of smiles but I expect he noticed a few jaws dropping." Yes , quite a few... Quote: "He looked rather like a butterfly about to take flight. The mitre was very tall and very gold and had belonged to the Blessed Pius IX - Pope 1846-1878." Our dear Papa was buried under so much gold ... and you could not see his small face , only that tall mitra . How sad. Quote: "The lovely pectoral cross, set with pearls and emeralds, hung strangely low over his waist." Unfortunately... such a beautiful cross. Quote: .... "as clearly the same length it had always been so the cope-bearers were there for effect. To my eye it looked archaic and a bit silly. I have said elsewhere that this ceremony gave the impression of being theatre and on further reflection, and after seeing more ceremonies in this vein, I have not changed my mind." What can I say...agree 100% Benodette , and no, I haven't change my mind either. I miss terribly the previous ceremonies.
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Benodette	Reception in the Apostolic Palace and the Mass of the Rings - November 2007	#371	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 5350 05/07/08 12:22:58	© Benodette On Saturday evening we were able to enter the Apostolic Palace to visit the new cardinals. Everyone, without exception, has to line up for this. John Allen recounted his experience of being squashed between the rector of the Pontifical Biblical Institute and the Ambassador of Argentina to the Holy See while he waiting in line. Some people get there ages early and put up with the crush. I prefer the high-risk strategy of arriving very late with the possibility of not being admitted. Nothing is worth being crushed like a sardine in a can by an excited mass of humanity with an urge to push and push regardless of the consequences. I was fortunate in being among the last group to be admitted. The Apostolic Palace was much less crowded and there was hardly any line to greet the cardinals, excepting Cardinal Delly in the Hall of Blessings, and he was worth waiting to greet. © Benodette The Apostolic Palace looked splendid with all of the grand reception rooms flooded with light and colour. The steep walk up from the bronze door led to the first room, the Sala Regia, occupied by Cardinal Foley and Cardinal Sandri. The other cardinals were scattered through the other elegant rooms, all of them richly gilded and adorned with frescoes or carved ceilings. © Benodette © Benodette There were many well-known faces scattered through the rooms. Archbishop Marini was there chatting animatedly to many people and not looking remotely cross. © Benodette Cardinal Law looked exceedingly well fed. Angelo Gugel, the retired papal valet, was also greeting some of the new cardinals. © Benodette Cardinal Foley and Cardinal Sandri both had lots of people still waiting to greet them. © Benodette Both of them were starting to look a little worn out and the only refreshment they had was water. © Benodette Cardinal DiNardo still looked quite chirpy and Cardinal Rylko was greeted emotionally by many who associated him with his fellow Pole, Papal Wojtyla. © Benodette Cardinal Delly was seated at the end of the Hall of Blessings. People of all nationalities waited patiently in line greet him. I think almost everyone who went to the Apostolic Palace that evening lined up for Cardinal Delly and the many Iraqis present were touched and grateful that this was so. Even at the end of the visiting period the Hall of Blessings was still full of people waiting to greet him. © Benodette This is the room behind the famous balcony, the place where the Pope stands for the Urbi et Orbi and where the new Pope first appears after his election. The window leading to the loggia is on the right of this picture and many people were pulling back the curtain to look outside. The view is directly lined up on the obelisk and the Via Conciliazione stretches away towards the Tiber. It must be rather intimidating for the newly elected Pope to face that view for the first time, when the piazza and the Conciliazione are full of people, all focused on him. What must go through his mind as he looks down at them all - knowing that for the rest of his life he will be their Holy Father and they will look to him for guidance? This is where reality must finally kick in rather than in the Sistine or even in the Room of Tears. Only the most confident and prepared of men could fail to be moved by it. It is no wonder that there was a flicker of apprehension in Joseph Ratzinger's eyes when he stepped out onto that balcony. Even his sweet smile could not disguise it. The exit from the reception rooms leads through the loggia above the Cortile San Damaso. The ceilings here are also beautifully decorated. A few of the windows were open and there was a dramatic view of the moon emerging from behind a threatening looking black cloud above the Apostolic Palace. Rome was laid out like a glittering carpet out below it. © Benodette Floodlights picked out some of the most significant buildings. The Pope can see that view from his window. I know if I was looking out at it I should long to slip out and disappear into that enticing city. Cardinal Dziwisz recalls that every night when he was in Rome Papa Wojtyla would look out of his bedroom window and bless the city before going to bed. Perhaps Papa Ratzinger does the same. Being a virtual prisoner in such a beautiful city must be one of the great sacrifices of accepting the papacy. Castel Gandolfo, on the other hand, is one of the great perks - that, and never having to fly commercial ever again. We finally emerged a little way beyond the Santa Anna Gate. Immediately above, the lights were on in the kitchen and dining room of the Pope's apartment. It reminded us that we wanted our dinner too. The next day the Pope would be onstage again for the Mass of the Rings so he probably had an early night. The Mass of the Rings This section was written quite a while ago and the remarks I made here about the arrangement of the altar have since been discussed on another thread. At the risk of being repetitive I have decided to leave the account as I first wrote it as it records my first reactions to the changes. Since this Mass there have been modifications to the arrangement of the altar and there is now a gap between the cross and the first candle on either side. This seems to be a reasonable compromise, although the addition of the seventh candle behind the cross only serves to put another barrier between it and the congregation. People were less excited for this service and, perhaps because it was a Mass, there was far less noise from the congregation in the run-up to the start. There was the usual surge of expectation as the lights came up and the processional cross appeared at the back of the basilica. The new cardinals were all dressed in chasubles and mitres except for Cardinal Delly who wore a cream cope embroidered with flowers. © Benodette People applauded as the Pope appeared. On this occasion he looked glorious, wearing a chasuble of rich golden yellow and a gold and white mitre set with jewels that looked liked topaz or garnet. This mitre was a gift presented to him last June and it is rich and precious without being too tall and overwhelming for his size. © Benodette The chasuble was made for Papa Wojtyla, and it was quite long on Pope Benedict, but he looked very dignified and yet pastoral. There was lace, but it was mostly hidden by the chasuble. © Benodette In front of the altar the huge throne had been replaced by the lightweight gilded chair with cream upholstery, presumably because it needed to be moved during the service and there was no small crane readily available to shift the Leonine monster. When the Pope sat on this chair he was clearly visible and he looked comfortable too. © Benodette The Mass was similar to those I have previously attended in the basilica. The Liturgy was mostly in Latin but the readings were in the vernacular - on this occasion English and Spanish. The Gospel was intoned in Latin and the prayers of the faithful were in multiple languages including Hindi and Arabic. © Benodette In his homily the Pope spoke of the solemnity of Christ the King and the significance of the image on the ring which was given to the new cardinals. The Crucifixion scene in the four Gospels constitutes the moment of truth when the "veil of the Temple" is torn and the Holy of Holies appears. The maximum revelation of God possible in this world occurs in Jesus Crucified, because God is love and the death of Jesus on the Cross is the greatest act of love in all of history. Well then, on the Cardinal's ring that I will consign in a few moments to the new members of the Sacred College is portrayed precisely the Crucifixion. This, dear new Cardinal-Brothers, will always be an invitation for you to remember of what King you are servants, on what throne he has been raised and how he has been faithful to the end in overcoming sin and death with the power of divine mercy. Mother Church, Spouse of Christ, gives you this symbol in memory of her Spouse, who loved her and gave himself up for her (cf. Eph 5: 25). Thus, wearing the Cardinal's ring, you are constantly called to give your life for the Church. © Benodette Following the homily each cardinal approached the Pope to be given the ring symbolising his office. He exchanged a few words with each one before giving them a brief embrace. © Benodette When the Pope moved to the altar to begin the celebration of the Mass the consequences of the new arrangement of candlesticks became apparent. Six enormous baroque gilded candlesticks flanked the crucifix which was placed centrally. © Benodette This meant that the whole of the consecration was hidden - a rather strange experience for people used to seeing it. By this I do not mean seeing the priest. Although there has been discussion about the priest being the focus when he faces the people I have never thought of it like this. Indeed I was taught that the focus was the Eucharist and not the celebrant. I do not think I am unique in having been taught this. Having the cross facing away from the congregation also means we see only the back of the cross and not the crucified Christ but elsewhere I have read that having the cross facing only the celebrant is considered a great leap forward. © Benodette Crucially, the new arrangement prevents the congregation seeing the elevated Host. In the old Mass we do see the Host and the crucifix too as everyone is facing it. In the basilica the new arrangement created a strange sense of exclusion. In the Eastern rite the whole consecration takes place behind the iconostasis. It is hidden, symbolising mystery - but that it not our way in the Latin rite. If the altar was against the wall, and everyone faced the same way, this arrangement would work very well. In St Peter's, and many other Roman basilicas, that cannot be the case. This arrangement has turned the altar into a kind of "bunker" with the celebrant hunkering down behind the barricade. © Benodette When the Mass was over the new Cardinals came back down the aisle followed by the Pope. He was smiling a lot and he did not seem at all tired. Thankfully he seems to be managing his energy levels very sensibly because his schedule would be enough to wipe out many men who are decades younger. © Benodette He went pretty quickly down the aisle and again greeted the people who were waiting in the square. We heard the roar from the crowd as the doors were opened. He made it back to his apartment for the Angelus almost exactly on time. © Benodette
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Benodette	First Vespers of Advent - 2007	#372	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 5356 05/08/08 15:07:49	I shall leave these spaces for the events I have not had time to post yet. If people are interested enough I will insert them at a later date without making this thread hopelessly out of sequence. I thought I had better post the account of the Mass at Yankee Stadium before the Pope's visit to the US fades into a distant memory. I am sorry I cannot be timelier in posting these accounts.
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Benodette	Easter 2008	#373	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 5357 05/08/08 15:09:33	I shall leave these spaces for the events I have not had time to post yet. If people are interested enough I will insert them at a later date without making this thread hopelessly out of sequence. I thought I had better post the account of the Mass at Yankee Stadium before the Pope's visit to the US fades into a distant memory. I am sorry I cannot be timelier in posting these accounts.
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Benodette	Mass at Yankee Stadium, New York - 20 April 2008	#374	[url]	[-]
Member Posts: 5358 05/08/08 15:48:41	After a week of beautiful spring weather the morning of Sunday 20th April was grey and overcast. A veil of mist shrouded much of Manhattan's famous skyline. The forecast promised that it would burn off later in the day but the gloomy skies seemed appropriate for the Pope's visit to Ground Zero. In the afternoon he would go to Yankee Stadium for a triumphant end to his six day visit to the US. Watching the Pope at Ground Zero on the television was very emotional and the memory of it lingered as we set out for the stadium and a very different kind of event. There was a strong recommendation to travel on public transport so we boarded the subway in Manhattan for the Bronx. At first the trains were relatively empty but as we changed trains and got closer to the stadium more and more people began to squeeze into the carriages. Although the instructions which came with the tickets said that no large bags, food or drinks would be allowed, some people seemed to be equipped for an elaborate picnic, complete with rugs. It was with tremendous relief that we eventually poured out of the train onto the elevated platform near the stadium. An endless stream of people gradually negotiated the stairs and at the bottom a team of friendly volunteers in red jackets and NY policemen directed the throng to the appropriate access gates. I expected huge lines but in fact it was all organised very efficiently. There was a wait for the thorough security checks, but our line moved quite quickly, mainly because most of the people in it had observed the no large bags rule. In about half an hour we were all through. Beyond the ticket check more volunteers handed out packs containing a booklet of the Gospel of Luke, a plastic poncho in case of rain, and a yellow or white handkerchief for waving. Having zero interest in most sports, I had never been to a stadium before. The inner gallery reminded me of the coliseum in Rome, and I suppose that must have been the original model for these huge stadiums. It was packed with people and lined with stores selling all kinds of things. Shopping seemed a popular activity to pass the time before the beginning of the Mass. We slowly negotiated our way through the throng, directed by volunteers, until we emerged into the blessed fresh air. © Benodette The arena was enormous, and below on the field the stage holding the altar and the papal chair was decorated in yellow and white. We were directed down the steps of the lower tier and onto the flat area in front of the stage. At the entrance to our section we were met by extremely smart ushers dressed in grey tailcoats and pinstriped trousers with white carnations in their buttonholes and white gloves. They looked as if they were dressed for a wedding. They showed us to our seats with a smile. It was approaching midday and the sun was just beginning to appear through the mist although it was still chilly. © Benodette The sight of that enormous stadium, rising so steeply in tiers to a rim of bright floodlights, was very impressive. Our section was about two thirds full when we arrived, but there were still masses of empty seats in the tiers above, even though the doors were supposed to close at noon. We soon found out why when we went inside again in search of water and a coffee. People were lining up to buy hot dogs, popcorn and pretzels for their lunch. It took forever to buy drinks and by the time we returned to our seats the concert was already in progress. © Benodette A succession of singers entertained us, ranging from Gospel to Jazz. Most memorable was the tenor Marcello Giordani who sang Nessun Dorma. The time passed quite quickly and there was a very happy atmosphere of anticipation. Gradually the stands filled with people. © Benodette Guido Marini and William Millea arrived and began to rehearse the servers and deacons.


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