An estimated 150 cardinals and 1,000 bishops are expect to be in Rome this weekend to concelebrate the dual canonization of Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII.
Holy See Press Office director the Rev. Federico Lombard said that Catholic leaders will be coming from all over the world for the sainthood ceremony on Sunday, the
Catholic News Agency reported.
Lombardi said that the attendees would also include 93 official delegations from countries and international organizations, as well as 24 heads of state.
Representatives of other major religions, including Orthodox Christian, Anglican, Jewish and Muslim officials, will also attend the celebrations, which start on Saturday with prayer vigils held in a dozen churches around Rome.
Editor’s Note: Do You Approve of Pope Francis? Vote Now in Urgent Poll
The agency reported that the canonization Mass will be held in St. Peter’s Square on April 27 starting at 10 a.m. Rome time. A recitation of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy will begin at 9 a.m.
Although Lombardi has said that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has been invited to the event, he said late Thursday that the frail former pontiff's attendance was still in question.
The Tidings reported that the EWTN Global Catholic Television Network and SiriusXM radio will be broadcasting live coverage of the canonization. On SiriusXM’s Catholic Channel, Cardinals Timothy Dolan and Edward Egan of New York will be hosting specials about the new saints.
"The making of a saint is always a wonderful occasion for the Church, made particularly special in this case as Blesseds John Paul II and John XXIII were loved and admired by so many millions of people across several generations," said Cardinal Dolan, according to the Tidings.
"I am excited to invite a nation of listeners, from all faiths, to discuss the qualities of these men and their impact on our world."
Editor’s Note: Do You Approve of Pope Francis? Vote Now in Urgent Poll
Related Stories: