The Catholic News Agency (CNA) is extending a special invitation to you, our readers, to follow Pope Benedict XVI on each step of his momentous voyage to Bavaria.  Stay tuned for continued stories and check our website for full coverage of the trip – including a special Flash presentation – starting today and running through Thursday, September 14th.

CNA’s coverage is being boosted by working agreements with Europa Press and German news channel ZDF, which was one of the three secular press sources granted an exclusive interview with the Pontiff last month.

The Pope, who has described the trip as having tremendous personal importance, will make stops at locations significant to his life in Munich, Altötting, Marktl am Inn, Regensburg, and Freising.

"I want to see again the places where I grew up, the people who touched and shaped my life,” the Pope said in a recent interview, “I want to thank these people."

Meet the friends and acquaintances of Benedict, from his childhood to his days as a young priest and professor, from his time as Archbishop of Munich to his years as a Vatican Cardinal coming home for vacations.  Learn about the many preparations locals have made in anticipation of the historic visit.  Read the Pope’s words as he preaches to his countrymen and meets with priests, seminarians, and university colleagues.

Follow our continuing coverage at www.catholicnewsagency.com.