Father Jorge Raul Villegas, the director of logistics for Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Leon, said church bells throughout the Mexican city will ring out to welcome the Pope upon his arrival.
“We are inviting all of Mexico to welcome him in this way as soon as he lands, and so we are inviting people to bring small bells.”
Fr. Villegas spoke with CNA on Jan. 18 and outlined details for the Pope’s visit, which is scheduled for March 23-26.
He recalled that during John Paul II’s five visits to the country, Mexicans used small mirrors to reflect sunlight up to the Pope as the papal jet descended.
The priest added that there will be an official song for Benedict XVI’s visit and that young people will have a significant presence during the trip.
He also said special catechesis sessions will be provided to young people leading up to the Pope’s arrival.
Fr. Villegas said the greatest gift Mexicans can give the Pope is a deepening in their faith, “to tell him: We are believers, we continue to trust in our only guide who is the pastor of all pastors. We welcome you, Holy Father, as our pastor and we wish to listen to you.”