Spanish journalist notes unique timing of Pope's visit

Nov 4, 2010 / 16:02 pm

Spanish journalist Marian De la Fuente has reported that Spaniards in the city of Santiago de Compostela are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Pope Benedict XVI. It will be the first time a Pope visits the shrine dedicated to St. James during a jubilee year.

Speaking to the CNA, De la Fuente pointed out that John Paul II visited Santiago de Compostela “but did not do so during a Year of St. James - and thus the expectation is now even greater.”

“There is great expectation for Benedict XVI’s visit, and security is intense.  The peoples' expectations are really incredible.  I think that the meeting Benedict XVI will have with the pilgrims in some sense will be enriching for us all,” she said.

De la Fuente, who will cover the Pope’s visit to Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona, noted that some 8,000 journalists will follow the Pontiff's every step.

She added that every event on Pope Benedict's schedule will be standing room only.