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| Earlier photo of the Pope at Castel Gandolfo |
After about a twenty-minute ride, I am watching the Pope arriving in Castel Gandolfo. (By the way, there was a helicopter following the Pope's helicopter).
The scenes of the helicopter has really moved me, especially flying over Rome and the great monuments and his cathedral. Wow!
One cannot imagine the importance of this moment.
The countryside of Italy is so beautiful, so green.
The helicopter is about to land.
Bells are ringing in Castel Gandolfo. It is so moving, as the sun is setting.
The Pope does look more relived and relaxed coming out of the helicopter.
He radiates peace.
The Pope will give a little speech in a few minutes.
The crowd is about ten thousand according to the media.
That is more than the official number of inhabitants of Castel Gandolfo.
The secular media is really impressed by the fact that this man is so humble as to have given up his power.
These media people are moved by his humility. And, the fact that the Pope is here means that he will not be part of the voting at the conclave. This is so important.
The photos of Castel Gandolfo from the helicopter are stunning. The Pope is now on the balcony and the people are yelling wishes and clapping. He is so loved.
They will not stop clapping.
Dear Friends,
I am happy to enjoy your sympathy. I give thanks for your friendship and affection.
You know this is a different day for me than other days.
I am no longer the Pope....I am just a pilgrim starting his last pilgrimage on earth. (CNN translator)
He said more, but I can write no more.