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1949 Press Photo Churchgoer praying on cross at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican

Vatican City, Italy - A scene that will be duplicated countless thousands of times during the coming holy year, shows an early churchgoer, with rosary beads in one hand as she walked up to venerate the marble cross on the holy door at St. Peter's Basilica, where solemn ceremonies ushering in the holy year will take place this Christmas eve. Pope Pius XII will personally celebrate the midnight mass for all pilgrims according to an announcement made today. But because of space limitations, many thousands will have to be denied entry. This will make possible a mass gathering in the huge square outside the Basilica Sunday morning for those who cannot enter the church. Photo measures 6.5 x 9 inches. Photo Is dated 1949.

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Historic Images Part Number: lrb44780