Washington D.C., Apr 5, 2005 / 22:00 pm
As the onslaught of pilgrims continues to descend on Rome, the city is simultaneously preparing for the arrival of some 200 heads of state and numerous world dignitaries coming to pay their last respects at Pope John Paul II’s Friday funeral Mass.
Among them will be President George W. Bush, accompanied by his wife Laura, who will lead an official delegation of five from the U.S.
“Laura and I are looking forward to leading a delegation to honor the Holy Father,” the president said at a recent news conference.
Although not on the official funeral guest list, many U.S. senators are also planning a trip to Rome to pay their last respects to the pope. The group, led by Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tenn), will join over 2 million other pilgrims to say farewell to the pontiff.