SÃO PAULO, Brazil, MAY 11, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI's tendency to set aside formality in order to warmly greet the faithful was apparent was his first hours in Brazil.
The Pontiff, known as the "Panzer Cardinal" when he was prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, broke protocol more than once to see and bless the Brazilian faithful who anxiously waited to see him.
On Wednesday, after arriving at the Monastery of St. Benedict, the Holy Father greeted some 5,000 faithful who had gathered there, showing how the "warm welcome had moved the Pope."
At the end of his greeting, a visibly joyous Pontiff blessed the crowd and thanked them in Portuguese saying, "muito obrigado" [Thank you very much], before wishing them good night.
On Thursday morning, he greeted over 2,000 faithful who had been waiting since dawn after celebrating a private Mass in the monastery.
Benedict XVI greeted the crowd with open arms and then imparted his blessing, with a big smile.
Code: ZE07051101
Date: 2007-05-11