How to see Pope Francis

Pope Francis walking up to speak at a General Audience in September 2018

When visiting the Vatican there are two possible ways to see the Holy Father...

1. General Audience Every Wednesday the Pope gives a weekly catechesis teaching in Saint Peter's square. It is a wonderful way to hear him talk about the Gospel.

This is what a typical Wednesday morning looks like. On the left side of St. Peter's Basilica standing on the Pope mobile he'll emerge out of the Vatican. And before the actual General Audience begins- the Vatican security team will do a quick spin around the square. Get your cameras ready because he will wave. Or get your baby close because Pope Francis may be able to stop and kiss your baby. After the short spin, Pope Francis will begin to walk up a slight slope towards the Basilica to the pavilion (it's not an altar). The crowds cheering, the music, the Roman sun glittering. It is a joyous event.

Then the General Audience begins.

Be prepared to not understand what is being said. Why? The Holy Father will speak in Italian and Spanish giving his weekly teaching on the Gospels. Other priests will recap the Pope's talk in various languages (English, French, Portuguese). The Lord's prayer is recited in Latin at the end. And finally, Pope Francis will give a blessing to all those attending.

When: Every Wednesday morning at 10am. Show up early to get through security (sometimes it gets canceled due to the Pope's travel schedule) Where: St. Peter's Square (or in the hot months inside Pope Paul VI hall) How: It is free. There are no tickets required. However you can request tickets by writing an email to this address: inglese@pontificalisdomus.va (But you will have to pick-up the tickets the day before at a certain hour.) It is a nice way to see the Vatican twice on your trip.

2. Angelus Every Sunday the Pope speaks from a window from the Apostolic palace overlooking Saint Peter's square. This happens at noon. He will recite the Angelus prayer. After, he usually makes an appeal or call for extra prayers pertaining to a world event. He does this in Italian. (sometimes it gets canceled due to the Pope's travel schedule). This last's about 15 minutes. And he won't be on the Pope Mobile so you'll only see him high above.

TIP:

Many tour companies will charge for both of these free events. Why? They say that if you buy a tour with the company you will get a Papal blessing. Don't fall for the trap! Come to the Vatican for free and anything you bring (a rosary, prayer card) is blessed by the Holy Father on Wednesday (General Audience) and Sunday (Angelus). Just make sure you get early to the Vatican.  

What to wear when attending the General Audience or Angelus?

1) Dress to be respectful of the Church- no mini skirts (I know it may seem hard to dress when it is super hot, but trust me you can do it! Or else you'll end up having to buy a last minute scarf to wrap around your legs or neck.)

2) Sunglasses- the Roman sun is strong

3) Hat- to protect yourself from the sun

4) Water bottle- staying hydrating is a good thing

5) Umbrella- just because