We had seats in section 3 for this Mass. Alas, my excessive neatness the night before meant I packed my entrance ticket away. Come the morning, I couldn't find it, and almost missed the bus. Fortunately somebody saw my valiant efforts at catching up, and stopped the bus. I explained my situation, and a spare ticket was rustled up. I've forgotten who was the Good Samaritan, but I thank you greatly. It also meant that I had the opportunity to sit with a bunch of fine ladies, instead of the intended party, as my seat was now in section 4, which is on the north (or right, facing the front of the basilica). And that was in the sun all day!
A little north of Vatican City, early in the morning. Well before sunrise. It's a nice time to take photographs, as there is light in the sky, but the artifical illumination adds character.
Bernini's colannade and the front of St. Peter's in the early morning.
"Tickets Please" as our little tour party enters the designated area.
We were so early as to end up in about the third row of seats. And yes, we had a seat - no need to carry one around all day :-) This is looking back towards the Via della Conciliazione, before sunrise.
Saint Josemaria smiling down on St. Peter's Square in the early morning light.
Ah, sunrise at last!
And the crowd is beginning to arrive.
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