This Saturday Pope Francis will appoint 21 new cardinals from different parts of the world including Latin America, Iran, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines and the Ivory Coast.
“The readiness of a purpurate to give his own blood—manifested in the red colour of the suit—is certain when it is rooted in this awareness of having received compassion and in the ability to have compassion,” Pope Francis said.
In addition, the concert for the poor, directed by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, will also be held on that day. This musician is known for the soundtrack of Gladiator, The Lion King and Interstellar.
To end the day, at 6.30 pm, the Christmas tree and the nativity scene in St Peter’s Square will be inaugurated. This year’s nativity scene comes from the small town of Grado, north of Venice.
On Sunday, 8 December, as is tradition, Pope Francis will visit Piazza di Spagna to celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Conception.