Children welcome pope on lawn of apostolic nunciature in Washington

Published: 2008-04-16

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- As the black limousine in which Pope Benedict XVI was riding pulled up in front of the apostolic nunciature in Washington April 15, a crowd of schoolchildren stood on the lawn waiting to greet the pope. After getting out of the car, Pope Benedict stood next to the papal nuncio, Archbishop Pietro Sambi, and stretched his arms toward the children. They waved small papal flags and yelled "Happy birthday!" to him. One of the children welcoming the pope was kindergartner Katie Rose from St. Raphael Catholic Church in Rockville, Md. She said she was "really happy" to see the pope. Around her neck, she wore a rosary that her mother had given her that day to remember the pope's visit. Across the street, Catholic groups from around the country stood together, hoping to catch a glimpse of the pope. Some played instruments and sang songs. One group traveled from Santa Ana, Calif. "We're here to support the one who is our head," said Father Randy Guillen, a priest traveling with the Santa Ana group.

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