Pope makes surprise visit to St Peter's

Image: Vatican Media

Source: Vatican Media

Pope Francis made a surprise outing from Casa Santa Marta to St Peter's Basilica on Thursday morning.

Though the Pope's visit was brief, the news of his presence in the Basilica quickly spread, and the faithful lined up to greet him. Among them were some restorers working behind protective screens on a couple of projects currently undertaken by the Fabbrica di San Pietro. They were able to shake the Pope's hand.

Children approached to receive his blessing, and entire groups of pilgrims visiting Rome for the Jubilee crowded forward to catch a glimpse of the Holy Father.

Mgr Valerio Di Palma, a canon at St Peter's said: "The Pope passed through the Door of Prayer, then went to the Altar of the Chair, and finally to the tomb of St Pius X to pray."

Mgr Di Palma said the Pope did not speak, but his gestures conveyed affection and closeness to those gathered around him.