Visit to the Holy See - Day 1

Their Excellencies attended a reception hosted by the Embassy of Canada to the Holy See at the Canadian Pontifical College in Rome. The Governor General was greeted by Cardinals Thomas Colllins, Marc Ouellet and Jean-Claude Turcotte.

A boy's choir sang upon Their Excellencies' arrival.

Mr. Jon Allen, Chargé d'Affaires to the Holy See, gave remarks.

"As we gather here in celebration of this momentous occasion, I am heartened by the outpouring of support for the new pontiff," said His Excellency. "It is inspiring to see people in so many countries—of so many different cultures and languages—all raise their voices in unison."

During their visit to the Holy See, Their Excellencies were accompanied by a delegation of Canadians: the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, who also delivered remarks on this occasion.

Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston are pictured as they departed Ottawa. They represented Canada at the Mass celebrating the inauguration of the ministry of the newly elected Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Francis.

Upon their arrival in Rome, Their Excellencies were greeted by Minister Marco della Seta, Deputy Chief of Protocol, Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Msgr José Bettencourt, Chief of Protocol of the Secreteriat of State of the Holy See, Mr. Jon Allen, Chargé d'affaires to the Holy See and by Colonel Jerome Iadicicco, Commander of the 31st Stormo.