In Rome, pilgrims' mixed emotions coincide with bittersweet moments

Published: 2005-04-01

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The shutters of Pope John Paul II's apartment windows were closed April 1, and the broad avenue leading up to the square was closed to automobile traffic, both signs of the seriousness of the pope's condition. In some ways life in St. Peter's Square continued as usual: Pilgrims and tourists from around the world milled around or lined up to visit St. Peter's Basilica. Vatican workers stacked the chairs that had been set up for Easter services. But at some entrances to the square, Italian police stopped reporters from entering, apparently to guarantee pilgrims and Romans some quiet space. Some of those in the square had their eyes fixed on the pope's shut windows. Many more did not, concentrating more on the simple experience of being here than on the pope's condition.

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