Vatican City: The Vatican has released the full programme for Pope Leo XIV as he prepares to visit Pompeii and Naples on May 8, marking the first anniversary of his election.
The day will begin in Pompeii, where Pope is expected to arrive at the Shrine of the Virgin of the Rosary of Pompeii at 8:50 in the morning. Church leaders and civil authorities will welcome him before meeting people involved in the shrine’s charitable works, as well as those who benefit from them.
He will then travel through the city and reach Piazza Bartolo Longo, where large crowds are expected to gather. Before the Mass, Pope will spend time in prayer and greet the sick, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
At 10:30 in the morning, he will celebrate Mass in the square. At noon, he will take part in the traditional supplication to the Virgin Mary, a long standing devotion at the shrine. Earlier, he will also pray at the tomb of Bartolo Longo, the founder of the shrine.
After lunch, Pope will travel by helicopter to Naples, arriving in the afternoon. He will be received by Cardinal Domenico Battaglia and local authorities.
In Naples, the visit will focus on Saint Januarius, also known as San Gennaro. At the Cathedral, Pope will meet priests and religious men and women of the archdiocese. Children are also expected to welcome him outside the Cathedral.
Inside, he will pray in the chapel where the relics of Saint Januarius are kept, including the well known ampoules believed to contain the saint’s blood. He will then deliver a message to those present.
Later, Pope will go to Piazza del Plebiscito, one of the city’s main squares, where he will meet the people of Naples and address them. He will also visit the nearby Basilica of San Francesco di Paola to greet members of the religious community and other leaders.
The visit will conclude with a prayer entrusting the city to the Virgin Mary, followed by Pope’s blessing. He is scheduled to leave Naples in the evening and return to the Vatican by helicopter.