October 10, 2012. (Romereports.com) For some visiting the Vatican is a lifelong dream. But making it happen isn't always easy. Every week there is a group that makes this possible for handicapped people.
With help from the Order of Malta, about 1,000 people traveled from Germany to Rome, to assist people in wheelchairs, so they too can attend a general audience and see the Pope.
ANDREAS KONEN
Order of Malta (Germany)
“We are here, 300 pilgrims in wheelchairs and it's a great thing for these people to be in Rome.”
The Order of Malta is a Catholic organization that has a presence in roughly 120 countries. This audience in particular was described by many members as a gift.
ANDREAS KONEN
Order of Malta (Germany)
“It's very emotional for me. It's the fourth time I've seen the Pope. I saw in Hamburg, I saw him in Munich and this is the second time I've seen him in Rome. It's always great pleasure and honor with such a great group, with all this joy, fun and happiness.”
So for a few hours, Rome's Via della Conciliazione street become an improvised parking lot. About 29 buses were needed to bring this group to St. Peter's Square. But still, they say it was well worth it.
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