We were all surprised as Pope Benedict Emeritus was introduced by Pope Francis. Then the Holy Door for the Jubilee of Mercy was officially opened. We received an Apostolic blessing and then Pope Francis led the procession into St. Peter's.

Following the Mass, we had a photo shoot. We especially enjoyed watching the Sisters share the statue and new Pro-Life Divine Mercy Icon with the many pilgrims who inquired and wanted to take pictures with them.

A few more surprises...

At the noon hour, Pope Francis unexpectedly greeted pilgrims and prayed The Angelus from his flag draped window.

The beautiful Nativity and Christmas tree were center stage.

What trip to Rome wouldn't be complete without a picture with the Swiss Guards?

The Jubilee Icon is seen at St. Peter's.

The Sisters immediately became "Street Evangelizers" at the perfect resting spot in front of St. Peter's as we went to pick up our Wednesday Audience tickets.

After finishing their reconsecration to Jesus through Mary, and before reciting their consecration prayer, Bernadette noticed the heart shaped cloud directly above the reserved seating area where we will be seated for the Audience. (For those viewing on EWTN, we will be on the upper reserved platform to the right of Pope Francis.)

Another surprise...when we returned, the Sisters were engaged in an interview with the producers of the light show on the facade of St. Peter's through Syndication.ap.org.

A perfect ending to Our Lady's Feast Day and the opening of the Jubilee Year was to receive beautiful orchids at dinner from our server.

We visited the chapel and gifted them to Our Lady and prayed for all of you!

Photo Album