The Pope and the press
Pam Sellers
CNN Producer
I am at the media center at the Westin Hotel in Washington where journalists from around the world–who were unable to get to Andrews–are watching a live pool feed of the Pope's arrival from a large movie screen. There is also a mix of staff personnel from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops–the host coordinators of this event.
The moment Shepherd One landed there was applause around the room. Some staffers are videotaping the screen, even photographing it. In the background you hear broadcasters calling the event in spanish and reporters speaking other in various languages. The energy is palpable.
The staffers–and even the reporters–again applaud as the Pope emerges from the plane. Observers marvel at how quickly he comes off the stairs and how he good the Pope looks. "He has a gig for life," one of the staffers says.
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Filed under: Pope Benedict |
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Lucky for you Pam, to see the Pope in person , I'm glad to see him in America, to the many catholics in Washington and New York he is certainly welcome, he seems delighted in greeting and meeting fellow Americans, love his little red shoes".
Regarding the opening ceremony on the White House lawn welcoming the Pope: I was surprised and angry as an American seeing a troop of Revolutionary War era soldiers in red coats marching around on the White House lawn playing pipes. Traditionally, the Revolutionary forces under General Washington are portrayed in dark blue coats (in any pageants I have ever seen), fighting the British military known as the Red Coats. Britain (TheRed Coats) were fighting to keep America a colony under 18th century British monarchial rule. Personally, I think the choice of the color, is in very poor taste. The historical connotation of color and symbol is an very important one, I think. Call it a trivial observation if you will; in my opinion, it was a poor choice. I am wondering if any fellow Americans had the same reaction.
Thank you for your comment, Annie. Yes we are forunate to have these experiences. However, what makes these events truly amazing are the stories from real people–like your own sister. I'm looking forward to hearing their stories this coming week. If you hear more–keep us posted!
Best,
Pam
Pam
How lucky you are to see the pope up close like this. Its probably a once in a lifetime opportunity. I have a rosary blessed by the last Pope that my sister brought back to me from her semester of study in Rome – I treasure it since its as close to a pope as I will ever come!
Annie Kate
Birmingham AL