Catholics in Rome prepare for Holy Week celebrations

By Melissa Colabraro

ROME, March 10 – Starting March 16, Palm Sunday in the Catholic tradition, the streets of Vatican City will be crowded with pilgrims gathering together to begin celebrating Holy Week. 

People from all around come to what is known as the smallest country in the world for the festivities of Holy Week.

Beginning on Palm Sunday, Pope Benedict XVI will be saying a Holy Mass in Saint Peter's Square; the procession begins at 9:30 a.m. for the blessing of the palms followed by the procession.

Anyone may attend, although it is highly recommended to arrive much earlier, according to Giovanna Paparazzo, a 35-year-old who attended Holy Week ceremonies here in Rome in 2007. 

“It was by far the best experience of my life,” said Paparazzo. “Being able to attend a Holy Mass given by the pope was a heartwarming experience.” 

On March 21 at 9:15 p.m., the yearly tradition of the Way of the Cross ceremony will be held at the Colosseum where a large crowd of faithful usually congregates outside holding votive candles.

“Anyone who’s anyone can attend these ceremonies and I highly recommend everyone to take advantage of that,” says Paparazzo.  “Although Easter Sunday Mass may be a little crazy with all the people, it is still worth it.”

Pope Benedict XVI will be saying Mass in Saint Peter’s Square at 10.30 a.m. Easter Sunday, March 23.

“It’s a once in a life time opportunity, every line I waited in, the lack of sleep I missed out on and the meals I skipped was completely worth it,” said Paparazzo.

For a list of holy week activities visit the Vatican website here.