The Pope's main audience hall continues to look more and more like its pre-pandemic version. There are more people at Papal audiences, especially foreigners, a sign that bans are being lifted around the world.
There was this couple from the United States.
MAN
'We are here in Rome because our dear friend is being ordained to the diaconate for the Archdiocese of Washington tomorrow morning here at St. Peter's.'
The number of Americans has grown, especially throughout September. Even the Archbishop of Washington, D.C., was finally able to travel to Rome to take possession of his church as Cardinal.
There have also been more tourists from Latin America.
MAN
'The atmosphere, Pope Francis' energy at 84, his humanity, and his way of teaching in such a simple way touches the hearts of the faithful.'
For Europeans, reaching Rome is easier. This group from a German parish was happy to have seen the Pope up close.
WOMAN
'The atmosphere in the hall was really excited. Everybody seemed really happy. For me it was really nice to be able to come to Rome because it is the center of the Catholic Church.'
But the General Audiences are far from what they used to be before the pandemic.
Everyone has to continue wearing face masks and maintain physical distancing.
JRB
TR: SS
