Though the Pope’s visit was brief, the news of his presence in the Basilica quickly spread, and the faithful gathered 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, too, 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 him.