Some 12,000 people have booked a seat for the mass by Pope Francis at the Granaries in Floriana on Sunday morning.
The pontiff is set to travel to the island for a two-day visit on Saturday, where he is expected to meet pilgrims, hold a prayer meeting in Gozo and meet with migrants. It is the pope's first international visit in 2022.
Addressing a press conference, ahead of the visit, Bishop Joseph Galea Curmi said some 12,000 people had already reserved a seat for the mass on Sunday.
Others have also signed up to be on the waiting list.
Anyone without a ticket might also be allowed into the seated area if there are no-shows, Galea Curmi said, adding that this will be done on a first-come-first-served basis.
“We would like to appeal to the people to welcome the pope with enthusiasm. This visit should serve as a message of hope. We encourage the people to welcome the pope wherever he passes and show him love. We should also open our ears and hearts to his message,” Galea Curmi said.
According to organising committee member Aaron Zahra, both popemobiles that will be used by the pope, as well as his official car, have already made their way to Malta. A number of delegates have...
