Francis drew 6.6 million to Vatican in 2013, three times Benedict

[onehandle]

Source: Reuters

[IMG][/IMG]

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - More than 6.6 million people attended events with Pope Francis at the Vatican from his election in March to the end of 2013, figures released on Thursday showed, compared to 2.3 million for former Pope Benedict in all of 2012.

The Vatican said the figures were based on the number of tickets issued for papal events where they are needed, such as general audiences, Masses and private audiences.

They were also based on estimates of the number of people at events where tickets are not needed, such as his weekly appearance from a window overlooking St. Peter's Square.

The Vatican did not issue comparative figures on Thursday but figures released on January 4, 2013 showed that some 2.3 million people attended all events presided by Benedict in 2012.

Read more: http://news.yahoo.com/francis-drew-6-6-million-vatican-2013-three-141317582.html

[Voice for Peace]

1. I wonder if Benedict is feeling terrible about this new Pope who is so popular?

Or do they have him shut in the Vatican tombs already?

[HERVEPA]

2. Does he get a percentage of the take?

[Historic NY]

4. Tickets are free.

http://www.vaticantour.com/papalaudience/

[rpannier]

3. With this Pope you get a smile, a warm greeting

and possibly a pic with him.

[HERVEPA]

5. Not to mention the delightful homophobia and strictures against birth control

[BeliQueen]

6. No one's perfect

But maybe with lots of prayer and a little time, even this Pope will see the light.

[HERVEPA]

9. Yeh, prayer. That always works.

[Beacool]

7. Benedict was not likable.

He also talked about helping the poor, but dressed and lived opulently. This Pope walks the walk.

Over 6.6 million people is quite good, particularly since he's only been Pope since March.

[WhoWoodaKnew]

8. I really like this Pope. I think, for the most part, his heart is in the right place.