It’s not every day that a pope decides to spend his vacation in your hometown. However, here at Castel Gandolfo, they’re used to it.
Many popes have stayed in Castel Gandolfo, although everyone admits that it has been a long time since the last papal visit.
It’s very emotional. It’s been many years since one has come here.
It seems he likes being close to people. I see that he’s visiting many communities.
Some locals, like this artist, say that Pope Leo XIV coming to town has brought joy.
It’s something important because it’s been so long… Pope Francis didn’t come here much, and now it feels like we’re returning to the old ways, and that’s beautiful.
What seems to define the style of the American Pope is a kind of closeness that’s less showy, but deeply genuine. He’s connecting with the local people: celebrating Sunday Mass for them like any parish priest, visiting communities like the Poor Clares, and not missing special occasions—like this encounter with the carabinieri for the 75th anniversary of the proclamation of their patroness.
JRB
Trans. CRT
