Schedule published for Saturday’s prayer vigil at the Vatican

People attending a candlelight vigil in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Oct. 11, 2012 marking the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council.

(photo: CNS/Paul Haring)

From CNS: 

Here is a breakdown of what will be happening and when:

5:45 pm (Rome time) — About 50 priests will begin hearing confession in designated areas under the colonnade. The pope specifically wanted the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation to be available at the event, the Vatican said, because “true peace springs from a heart that is reconciled with God and one’s brothers and sisters.”

6:30 pm — A speaker will read the pope’s Sept. 1 Angelus address in which he called for the Day of Prayer and Fasting for peace.

7 pm — Vigil begins

– The pope offers his greetings

– “Veni Creator” is sung, followed by Marian prayer to Our Lady Queen of Peace

– The Marian icon “Salus Populi Romani” (health of the Roman people) is carried by four Swiss Guards from the obelisk in the center of the square while two girls carry a floral arrangement.

– The pope leads the recitation of the Rosary, which will include readings from the poetryof St. Therese of the Child Jesus.

– A reflection by Pope Francis

– Eucharistic adoration

– Office of Readings. John 20:19-29

10:15pm to 10:40pm — 25 minutes of prayerful silence, music

– Eucharistic benediction

The event is expected to be over by 11pm.