Pope Benedict XVI from Three Feet away!

This is a once and a life time event! This morning at 4:15am EST, I was in St. Peter's square with nearly 100,000 faithful Catholics as we gathered for Pope Benedict XVI's blessing. Hundreds of youth tour groups crowded busses, subways, trains, and sidewalks and filled the entire square with banners, flags, and signs. Songs were sung, prayers were said, and chants of "Benedicto" were ushered. In the audience were priests, bishops, swiss guardsmen, nuns, and at least one sighted cardinal giving an interview (perhaps for KPOP?). Although it has been very hot here all week (35C), this morning was blessed with cooler weather and some clouds.

At this time, the Holy Father in his parade around the square passed my railing on the direct north side of the obelisk. He was only three feet from me. I was holding my camera in hand, and managed to capture a video of the experience which can be found here. This is an Apple QuickTime MOV movie, most Windows users should be able to view it with the right plug-in. Mac Users are already in the game.

I lost track counting the number of flags being flown, at least 20 countries were represented. When it was our turn (English), the Holy Father said something like this, "In the name of our Lord, greetings to the English speaking peoples here. Especial greetings to those from the countries of England (pause), Scotland (pause), and the United States (pause, some cheers). Many abundant blessings to you all for coming here today."