Public Invited to Greet Pope as He Travels Through Washington U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. March 19, 2008:
Washingtonians and visitors to our nation's capital will have opportunities to greet Pope Benedict XVI during his three-day visit to Washington, D.C. when he arrives April 15. An important part of the pope's demanding itinerary includes opportunities for the public to see the pope as he travels to some events.Details of the pope's travel routes are still being finalized, but there will be several opportunities for the general public to welcome the pope as he travels in the popemobile. Created for Pope John Paul II, the customized, bullet-proof vehicle allows for optimal visual contact between the pontiff and his audiences.
The general public can see the pope on Wednesday, April 16, as he departs from the White House visit with President and Mrs. Bush and travels to the Papal Nunciature on Massachusetts Avenue. Pope Benedict will ride in the popemobile for part of the route.
Later, the public will be able to see the pope as he travels in the popemobile to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on Michigan Avenue.
