Pope Benedict XVI will visit the Shroud of Turin May 2, 2010, the archbishop of Turin announced today.
During his visit, the Holy Father will pray privately in front of the holy shroud before celebrating Mass and reciting the Angelus with pilgrims in Turin’s main square. In the afternoon, the Pope will have a meeting with young people and call into the Little House of Divine Providence, a shelter for the poor, disabled and elderly.
Cardinal Severino Poletto, the archbishop of Turin, said the city “will welcome him with great enthusiasm and affection,” adding that for the local people his visit will be a “unique occasion” to meet and pray with the Pope, and listen to the message that he will bring.
The Pope’s visit is to coincide with an exposition of the Shroud in Turin’s cathedral from April 10 to May 13. The exposition will give pilgrims their first chance to see the holy shroud since restoration work was carried out in 2002.
Visitors can make reservations to see the exposition here.