Pope Francis will bless the pallia of the metropolitan archbishops appointed in the last year. He will bless them during Mass on Tuesday, June 29, the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul.
The pallium is a woolen band that is draped over the archbishop's shoulders. It symbolizes the sheep that a shepherd is called to carry on his shoulders.
The pallia will be placed near St. Peter's tomb during the ceremony.
Pope Francis will only bless the pallia at the Vatican. They will be sent to each archbishop, who will receive it in front of the faithful and other bishops of his archdiocese.
The Mass in St. Peter's Basilica will begin at 9:30 a.m., local time, with a limited number of participants.
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