frequently asked questions

papal blessings and Audiences

general questions

What is a Papal Blessing?
The Roman Catholic Church offers blessings from the Holy Father for special occasions such as Baptisms, Confirmations, marriages, and anniversaries. These blessings come in the form of certificates where the name(s) is inscribed. Many people treasure these certificates as important symbols of sacraments and special occasions.

How do I obtain a Papal Blessing?

  • Call your parish secretary at least three months prior to when you need your blessing. It is necessary that all applications for papal blessings be written on parish letterhead with the signature of the pastor. The secretary will be able to tell you the specifics for obtaining this letter.
  • In the letter you must specify the occasion for which the blessing is being requested (marriage ceremony, anniversary etc.)
  • Specify the date of the occasion. If the occasion is a wedding, the name of the Catholic Church, city, and state where the wedding is scheduled to occur must be given.
  • Include the exact names as they should appear on the blessing.
  • Specify the name and address of the person that the blessing should be sent to.
  • Finally, include a check (made out to the Diocese of Arlington) for the amount specified for type of blessing you would like.

How long will it take before I receive my Papal Blessing?
Since the letter must be processed at the Chancery and then sent to Rome where the blessings are issued the whole process will take about 3 months.

What kinds of Papal Blessings are available?
There are two options available for Papal Blessings. Both confer a Papal Blessing, the only real difference is in style. (Your version will have the current Pope's picture)

  • Madonna of the Streets ( $62.50)

Madonna of the Streets

  • Wedding Bands ( $48.70 )

Wedding Bands

Papal Audiences

I am going to Rome and I want to see the Holy Father, is that possible?
The Pope holds Papal Audiences at the Vatican most Wednesdays, tickets are necessary to see the Pope on these dates. Requests for tickets must be made at least 3 months in advance! If you are planning on making a trip to Rome, please start the process soon.

What is the process for requesting tickets to Papal Audiences?
Call your parish secretary. All requests must be signed by the pastor of the individual requesting the audience. A letter will be sent from the parish to the Chancery with the following information.

  • Name, address, and phone, of the individual(s) requesting the Papal Audience.
  • The parish in which they are registered.
  • Dates of arrival in and departure from Rome.
  • Address and phone number while in Rome.
  • Number of tickets requested.
  • Date they are requesting to attend the Papal Audience.

For more information about Papal Audiences and visiting Rome please see:

http://www.pnac.org/general/visiting_vatican.htm#see%20pope