25,000 Attend Mass at the Pius X Basilica

This pictures, starting from the top left and going clockwise, show you the Pius X Basilica, built underground. You see it empty and then in process of being readied for the celebration of the International Mass. In the entrance procession were over 300 from around the world....deacons, priests, bishops, cardinals...the songs, prayers, and readings in multiple languages. The principal celebrant was Archbishop Bicciu, Pope Francis' delegate to the Order of Malta. 20 bishops and cardinals concelebrated with him. I served as his Deacon of the Altar...thus no pictures once we began. If I had made that error in judgement, I would likely have been traded to another religion for a 10th round draft choice :). It was a truly spectacular mass and humbling to be on the altar amid 25,000 malades and members and volunteers of the Order of Malta. I think you could easily fit 4 or5 football fields inside this church. Some churches are beautiful in their architecture and art....this Basilica is made beautiful by the maladies who fill it.