- Are tickets or invitations required for the beatification? No tickets or invitations are required to attend the beatification ceremony or the prayer vigil and there is no charge. Beware of tourist agencies trying to sell you tickets or charging fees to obtain an invitation.
- Where and when will the mass and ceremony be held? The beatification mass, presided over by Pope Benedict XVI, will be held in Saint Peter's Square, Piazza San Pietro, at 10AM on May 1. Visitors who cannot get into the square can watch the ceremony on giant video screens set up in areas around the square.
- Will I be able to view Pope John Paul II's remains? No matter how many visitors are in attendance, everyone will have the chance to view the former Pope's remains inside Saint Peter's Basilica following the beatification, although the wait may be long.
- Where are Pope John Paul II's remains? The remains are currently entombed in the grotto below Saint Peter's Basilica. The marble slab covering the tomb will be removed and his coffin brought into the basilica. Following the viewing, the coffin will be placed behind another slab in a side chapel of Saint Peter's Basilica.
- Where and when is the prayer vigil? A prayer vigil, open to the public, will be held in Rome's Circus Maximus starting at 8PM on April 30. The prayer vigil will be officiated by His Eminence Cardinal Agostino Vallini and the Pope will participate by live video feed.
- Is there a mass the day after the beatification ceremony? A special mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated in Saint Peter's Square the morning of May 2, presided over by Cardinal Secretary of State, Tarcisio Bertone.
- Can I see the Beatification if I can't go to Rome? Information about viewing video or photos of the special masses and beatification events will be posted in the Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi multimedia section when it becomes available.
Important: No tickets or admission fee are required for these events and there is no way to reserve your space. Arrive early and be prepared for big crowds.
Where to Stay in Rome
If you're going to Rome from April 30 through May 2, expect most hotels and lodging to be full. Reserve your room as soon as possible. Places to stay in Rome:
