March 23, 2012. (Romereports.com) The Pope is now on his way to Latin America. Before boarding the plane, Benedict XVI walked with the support of a black cane on his right hand. Apparently it's the first time he's used a cane in public.

The Pope began using a cane a couple of months ago, in private. Vatican officials were quick to point out that the Pope decided to use a cane to feel more secure, not because of a medical condition. The Pope then made his way up the plane's stairway without the cane.

Several Italian politicians, including Prime Minister Mario Monti, greeted the Pope at Rome's Fiumicino area to wish him well in Mexico and Cuba.

The Pope will turn 85 on April 16th.