The Vatican post office is issuing three new commemorative postmarks. The Governorate of Vatican City State today announced the issue of these postmarks to commemorate the Special Assembly for the Middle East of the Synod of Bishops, which will take place Oct. 10-24 in Rome; the Romafil Philatelic Fair, scheduled for Oct. 29-30 in Rome; and the 64th Fall Philatelic Exhibition in Paris, which will be held Nov. 4-7.
Philately is the study of postage stamps and postal history, and can include the collection of stamps.
The postmark for the synod depicts a chalice, a Bible, and a map of the Middle East. It was created by the Vatican post office.
Anyone interested in obtaining the postmark must send the philatelic material to be franked, with a stamped addressed envelope, to the Vatican post office franking office before Nov. 10.
The second postmark, which was created by the Vatican Philatelic and Numismatic Office, depicts the Roman church of the Most Holy Trinity at Monte Pincio.
Those interested in this postmark must send their material to the same franking office before Nov. 30.
The Vatican Philatelic and Numismatic Office also created the Paris exhibition postmark, which depicts that city's Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
People interested in this postmark must send their material to be franked by Dec. 7.
SIC: CN/INT'L