Crowds cheer as the Pope passes by, Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTN
By Elizabeth Alva
EWTN Vatican, 2024-02-21
For decades, pilgrims to Rome have participated in the Wednesday General Audiences with the Pope as a highlight of their visit to the Vatican. From its humble beginnings as a series of audiences of formation given to newlyweds by Pope Pius XII in 1939, to its present-day event which hosts thousands – what exactly happens at these audiences?
The history
Taken up again after a brief pause during the Second World War, the custom of holding an audience on Wednesdays was initially seen as an opportunity for the faithful to visit with the pope, often celebrating various anniversaries and Papal milestones over the years. Beginning in 1963 with Pope Paul VI, the opening greetings for the faithful were translated into French, Spanish, German, and English for those in attendance, with present day additions including Polish and Arabic.
The short speeches of Paul VI drew an increasing number of pilgrims, leading to the construction of the Audience Hall that today carries the pontiff’s name.
Inaugurated in 1971, the Paul VI Hall was designed by Pier Luigi Nervi and crosses over Italian and Vatican City territory, accommodating crowds of up to 12,000. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTN
The four audiences during the brief Papacy of John Paul I introduced a pattern held in decades since. John Paul I delivered a cycle of speeches presented at each audience devoted to the virtues, a catechesis for those present. The most famous of these papal series, which have ranged from topics such as the Psalms to prayer, are those given by John Paul II between 1979 and 1984, now known as the beloved Theology of the Body.
Pope Francis concludes his remarks during an Audience held in St. Peters’ Square. Audiences are typically hosted outside during warmer months. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTN
The members behind the scenes
Coordinating a weekly audience of thousands is no small task, with many working behind the scenes at the audiences in various capacities.
A member of the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City State directing crowds during a Wednesday General Audience. The Gendarmerie are the official police force of the Vatican, working to maintain internal order of the city state. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNAs the Pope greets pilgrims, security personnel are always present to collect letters and gifts from well-wishers. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNLectors greet Pope Francis at the beginning of an Audience. Each week, greetings and announcements are delivered in various languages, often including special remarks and welcoming individual groups present on behalf of the Pontiff. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNA member of the Swiss Guard in the role of Throne Guard stands at attention near the papal throne. These guards can be seen entering and exiting shortly before and after the Pope, carrying the halberd that is now synonymous with the world’s oldest active military. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNAccredited members of the media capture proceedings from the press balcony. On the opposite side of the Paul VI hall, there are booths designated for translators and radio broadcasting of events held inside. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNA Swiss Guard and Vatican Gendarme watch over a section of the Paul VI hall. One of their responsibilities during such events is to ensure security within the Audience hall, and that all participants can peacefully listen to the Pope’s remarks. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTN
The Audience – a combination of celebration and reflection
Are these audiences still restricted to newly married couples? These days, anyone can attend a Wednesday audience, free of charge! While newlyweds still can receive the opportunity to meet the Pope by arriving in their wedding attire, attendees range from school groups to militia and even workers’ unions!
One much appreciated set of visitors is the musicians. At nearly every audience, an orchestra, choir, or marching band can be found, sharing their musical talent with all present.
Two Young musicians process out of St Peter’s Square after performing during an Audience. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNAnother group typically found in the Audience – college students! Here a visiting group from Franciscan University of Steubenville greets the Pope as he passes by at the conclusion of an Audience. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNPope Francis with one of the smallest audience attendees. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNThe handicapped and families with young children are frequently given an especial priority to meeting the Pope. Whether it is sharing a selfie or receiving a blessing, the opportunity is typically extended at the end of Audiences. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNA member of the Papal Household grasps a very important item – candies handed out by the Pope to children present. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNAnother common sighting at Audiences are various foreign dignitaries in attendance. Pictured here; two bishops exit St. Peter’s after greeting the Pope. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTNNewlyweds join in praying the Our Father in Latin at the conclusion of the Pope’s remarks. Credit: Elizabeth Alva/EWTN
No Wednesday General Audience is ever the same, with the changing scene of participants and events contributing to the festive atmosphere they are known to hold. Yet against this shifting backdrop, the concluding blessing of the Pope remains a constant. For a moment – the crowds fall silent in prayer, which lasts only until the Sign of the Cross is complete, and cheers fill the air “Viva il Papa!”
Elizabeth Alva is an intern photo-journalist for the EWTN Vatican Bureau. A local of San Jose, California her work has spanned 13 countries and 4 continents, with her passion being to document the daily workings of the Catholic faith.
