Allen Hunt's Blog

Here it is. The 5th and final cell phone video from our visit to Italy.

This one comes from St. Peter's Square, where every Wednesday when he is in town, Pope Benedict addresses pilgrims and anyone else who gathers there. I have no idea how many people can fit in the square - tens of thousands at a minimum.

We got there early in the morning and sat adjacent to the platform where the Pope gave his address. It was breathtaking and moving to watch throughout the morning as pilgrims and believers arrived in the square. They sang, they chanted, they carried banners written in various languages. It was remarkable to witness the universality and global flavor of the Church all in one place. As a new Catholic, this was very special to me.

The Pope spoke in Italian about Gregory the Great, not a subject I know much about. Various translators got up afterward and shared portions of his address in other languages. They also shared his greetings and recognized various groups who were present that day.

Really great stuff. Enjoy the video!