Pope Francis will celebrate mass and visit a women’s prison in connection with the Venice Biennale when he leaves on Sunday for his first trip outside Rome since September last year, when he was in France. Photo: Gregorio Borgia / AP / NTB
Of NTB | 28.04.2024 03:12:17
Culture and entertainment: Although the Pope arrives by helicopter directly from the Vatican to the women’s prison on the island of Giudecca in Venice, the journey is seen as a test of the fitness and agility of the 87-year-old church leader. In recent months, he has struggled with several health problems. He uses a cane or a wheelchair to get around and has had several rounds of bronchitis and flu. At Easter, he stood over a walk of the cross on Good Friday out of concern for his health.
A number of nations sponsor exhibitions during the well-known Biennale. The Vatican exhibition is in the women’s prison where the Pope begins his visit. It has been named “Through My Eyes” and consists of works by nine contemporary artists, who have worked closely with the inmates leading up to the exhibition.
The somewhat unusual choice of exhibition space underlines Pope Francis’ repeated calls that society must stand up for the poor and those who fall outside, including inmates.
After the prison visit, the trip goes by boat to the church of Santa Maria Maddalena and then to St. Mark’s Church, where the Pope will celebrate mass. Around 10,000 people are expected for the service with the head of the Catholic Church. In addition, several thousand will probably watch on big screens in St. Mark’s Square outside the church.
(© NTB)