Vatican City, May 23, 2016 / 10:49 am
Former Pope Benedict XVI could appear in public once again on June 29, the 65th anniversary of his priestly ordination.
Speaking after the May 20 presentation of a book dedicated to Benedict XVI's pontificate, Archbishop Georg Ganswein, prefect of the Pontifical Household and private secretary to the retired Pope, said that "there will be another occasion to see the Pope emeritus in public."
"Benedict XVI will celebrate the 65th anniversary of priesthood June 29, and we will see what we will be able to manage…this may present an opportunity to show that Benedict XVI is well."
The Catholic Church celebrates the martyrdom of Peter and Paul on June 29, patron saints of the city of Rome. On this feast, newly created metropolitan archbishops celebrate Mass with the Pope in St. Peter's Basilica and receive the pallium, the primary symbol of their office.