Castel Gandolfo, Italy: Crowds were beginning to gather in the central square of Castel Gandolfo to catch a glimpse of history: Two popes meeting for lunch and presumably discussing the future of the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis was to fly by helicopter yesterday to the papal residence in the Alban Hills south of Rome where Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has been living since resigning February 28, the first pope to step down in 600 years.
Benedict’s dramatic departure that day — flying by helicopter with his weeping secretary by his side and circling St. Peter’s Square in a final goodbye — is one of the most evocative images of this remarkable papal transition.
The Vatican is downplaying the luncheon in keeping with Benedict’s desire to remain “hidden from the world.”
The Vatican said the two popes embraced on the helipad. In the chapel where they prayed together, Benedict offered Francis the traditional kneeler used by the pope. Francis refused to take it alone, saying “We’re brothers,” and the two prayed together on the same one.
Pledge of obedience
Outside the villa, the main piazza of Castel Gandolfo was packed yesterday with well-wishers hoping to catch a glimpse of history: two popes breaking bread together and presumably discussing the future of the Catholic Church. They chanted “Francesco! Francesco!”
Vatican spokesman Rev. Federico Lombardi said he understands Benedict offered his pledge of obedience to the new pope, while Francis thanked Benedict for his ministry. He said they both wore white, though Benedict was in a simple cassock without the traditional sash and cape worn by Francis.
