D-Day has arrived in Quebec: Pope Francis is in town and will participate in a series of activities on the sidelines of his “penitential pilgrimage” which is due to end on Friday.
The program of the tour of the Holy Father was delayed by one hour today because of a delay in the flight which must bring Aboriginal leaders to Quebec.
Francis’ visit is a first for a pope in Quebec since the arrival of John Paul II in 1984.
Follow minute by minute all the developments of this historic visit
READ | A ‘big media show’: what Indigenous people think of Pope Francis’ apology
Pope Francis, who arrives in Quebec today after spending time in Western Canada, apologized to Indigenous peoples on Sunday for the wrongs committed by the Catholic Church for decades in residential schools across the country. Here is how his apology is perceived by members of indigenous communities with whom the 24 hours entertained.
2 p.m. | Few faithful on the Plains for the arrival of the Pope
A few hours before the arrival of Pope Francis, the faithful are becoming rather rare on the Plains of Abraham.
1:57 p.m. | The Quebec airport is preparing for the arrival of Pope Francis, whose arrival is scheduled a little in advance, around 2:43 p.m.
1:43 p.m. | Walkers from Lac-Saint-Jean arrive in Quebec City
After a grueling journey of 275 km, the indigenous walkers of Puamun Meshkenu, who left the Mashteuiatsh boarding school in Lac-Saint-Jean six days ago, have just arrived on the Plains of Abraham in Quebec, near the Edwin- Bélanger, for the papal visit.
READ | The pope will receive François Legault and his wife in private audience
PHOTO QMI AGENCY, MARIO BEAUREGARD
Prime Minister François Legault and his wife will have a private audience with Pope Francis.
READ | Where, when and how to see the pope in Quebec? Here’s what you need to know
It’s Wednesday, D-Day: François will set foot in Quebec City, a first for a pope since the visit of John Paul II in 1984. There will be many opportunities to see and hear him. Here’s a guide to help you find it.