Complaints arise over ticket charges for papal visit to Great Britain
July 26, 2010
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Organizers of Pope Benedict’s trip to Great Britain in September are facing criticism for seeking payment from those attending papal ceremonies.
Church officials in Great Britain have announced that when the Pope celebrates Mass, attendance will be restricted to those who have obtained a “pilgrim pass.” The suggested donation for these documents will be €20—although organizers hasten to add that no one will be required to pay.
Plans for the papal visit have been complicated by concerns over financing for the public events at which the Pontiff will preside. Lord Chris Patten, who is heading the British government’s efforts to organize the visit, pointed out to Vatican Radio that the complications arise in part from the fact that the Pope will be making an official state visit. “President Obama doesn’t go out and meet 100,000 people at an open-air venue” during a state visit to Britain, he pointed out.
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Further information:
- Challenges and Consensus Ahead of UK Papal Trip (Vatican Radio)
- Church defends Pope cash appeal (BBC)
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Posted by: New Sister -
Jul. 29, 2010 10:37 AM ET USA
Utterly dreadful - is this Chris Patten creature seriously making a comparison between the Supreme Pontiff, Vicar of Christ on earth, and Obama, servant of the Anti-Christ?? Can the British government do no better than this? God help us!
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Posted by: a son of Mary -
Jul. 27, 2010 2:20 PM ET USA
Oh Chris Patten, you're so tired! President Obama does LOTS of large, crowded events often in one day. I think the Brits are afraid that every decent Christian and indeed others will find themselves inexorably drawn to the Pope. I know I did in Washington DC a few years back. When the Popemobile came into view, there was this tremendous pull I felt and I ran toward him and I'm not a kid anymore. I think the Holy Spirit tugged at our hearts. It was a wonderful feeling! God bless BXVI!
