Pope Benedict XVI in the United Kingdom
Pilgrim Information
Vigil Information
Hyde Park is a particularly relevant site as it is known throughout the world. In Catholic and Anglican history it was the site of the gallows where many of the Reformation martyrs, both Catholic and Anglican, were executed, and therefore it has a unique ecumenical significance and this can be another moment of reconciliation.
The five parts of the Vigil are united by a common theme: “Heart speaks unto heart”, the motto of Cardinal John Henry Newman who will be beatified on the Sunday morning following the Vigil.
Security
When you arrive at the celebration there will be security checks and your cooperation would be much appreciated. The security staff and stewards will try to make your entry as smooth as possible. Please bear with us if there are queues.
You must bring some form of photographic identification e.g. passport or driving licence.
Please note: In order to operate safely the organisers need to reserve the right...
- to refuse admission
- to search those entering the site
- to eject people from the site
- to require all those attending to agree to comply with directions and instructions given on site by those responsible for safety.
Pilgrim Groups
As a Pilgrim you are part of a group and in keeping with time honoured pilgrimage traditions, you are asked to take care of each other and those around you, especially those with less mobility and special needs. You will probably want to stay together as a group at the gathering and to coordinate meeting-up before you begin your journey back home.
Access to the Papal Liturgies is exclusive to pre-allocated Pilgrims in Pilgrim Groups.
The Pilgrim Journey
Each of the places to be visited by the Holy Father is different, and so precise arrangements will be provided to your Pilgrim Leader who will have a coordinating role for your group.
Please be prepared for a very long and onerous journey to the celebration and home again. As there will be many people attending the liturgy, it may take several hours for people to enter and to leave the site following the Mass.
Pilgrim Picnics
You are welcome to bring a Pilgrim Picnic with you and please think about food and water for the whole of your journey (water will be provided on site, but you may like to also bring your own).
Please consider bringing non-perishable foods, and foods that do not need to be kept cool. Why not make arrangements to share picnics as appropriate?
On a very practical point, please bring only plastic cutlery and non-breakable cups and plates (no glassware or china), with food and drink being in plastic containers. Hampers and cool boxes should not exceed 20"x13"x8" (51cm x 33cm x 20cm).
Magnificat
Please do not forget to bring your copy of the Handbook for the Papal Visit prepared by Magnificat so that you can follow the liturgy and pray, using the texts provided.
Pilgrim Pack
Your Pilgrim Pack can be used for seating and for kneeling. Please feel free to stand, sit or kneel during the celebration as appropriate, always bearing in mind those around you and the ground conditions.
Pilgrim Passes
To gain access to the event site you will need a Pilgrim Pass. This will be distributed by your Pilgrim Leader on departure from your Pilgrim Point.
Questions...
Any questions should be directed to your Pilgrim Leader who will be able to contact the organisers as necessary.
Leaving site
You are able to leave the site either individually or with your Pilgrim Group at any time BUT if you choose to leave early, readmission will not be possible.
Click for Liturgical Information.