Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV will return to Castel Gandolfo this week to celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and take part in prayers with the local Catholic community.
Pope is scheduled to arrive at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo on the evening of August 12 and will remain there until Tuesday, August 18. The visit continues his connection with the town, where popes have traditionally spent time during the summer.
On Saturday, August 15, Pope Leo will preside over Holy Mass at 10 a.m. at the Pontifical Parish of St. Thomas of Villanova in Castel Gandolfo. The Mass will mark the Feast of the Assumption, one of the major celebrations in the Catholic calendar that honours the belief that Mary was taken into heaven at the end of her earthly life.
The celebration will be similar to last year, when Pope Leo also celebrated Mass at the same parish for the Feast of the Assumption. His return to Castel Gandolfo gives residents and pilgrims another opportunity to participate in a public celebration with Pope.
Following the Mass on August 15, Pope Leo will pray the Angelus from Castel Gandolfo. He is also scheduled to lead the Angelus prayer from the town on Sunday, August 16.
Pope's presence in Castel Gandolfo is expected to draw Catholics and visitors to the historic town south of Rome. The area has a long association with the papacy because of its Apostolic Palace and its role as a traditional summer residence for popes.
Although Pope Leo will remain at Castel Gandolfo for several days, the Feast of the Assumption will be the main public religious event of his stay. The Mass and Angelus prayers are expected to focus attention on Mary and her importance in Catholic faith and devotion.
The Assumption is celebrated by Catholics around the world on August 15 each year. It is also a major feast in many countries and is marked by Masses, processions and other religious celebrations.
Pope Leo's visit also reflects his decision to continue some of the public traditions associated with Castel Gandolfo. His celebration of the Assumption there last year was one of the notable events of his first summer as Pope, and this year's return gives the town another important moment in the liturgical calendar.
Pope is expected to continue his stay in Castel Gandolfo through August 18 before returning to the Vatican. During his time there, his public schedule will remain centred on prayer, liturgical celebrations and contact with the faithful.