.- Father Aldo Armellin, who is the Diocese of Aosta’s liaison with the villa at Les Combes where Pope Benedict XVI is on vacation, said local residents feel the Pontiff’s presence is “a moment of grace” and “an event capable of instilling new emotions.”
After noting that many await the Pope’s words with anxiousness at the vespers celebration this Friday in Aosta and at the Angelus this Sunday, Father Armellin said local residents have always been respectful of the Holy Father’s needs and privacy and that they are accompanying him with their prayers. They consider the unexpected encounters with the Pope, such as his chance-meeting with a few children with whom he shared a few moments, to be gift, the priest said.
He also said that many locals are sending the Pope sweets and notes, and that the Pope takes the opportunity whenever he can to greet them and exchange a few words.
