Description

Pope Benedict XVI presides over Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter's Basilica. A smiling Benedict, dressed in gold-colored vestments, waved to photo-snapping pilgrims and applauding church-goers as he glided up the centre aisle towards altar. (Dec. 24)

Transcript

SHOTLIST:CTV - AP CLIENTS ONLYVatican City - Dec. 24, 20121. Close-up of candles2. Various of Pope Benedict XVI arriving on wheeled platform, waving at congregation as he passes3. High wide of Benedict moving up central aisle4. Wide of Benedict administering incense (symbol of purification and sanctification) around altar5. Mid of Benedict blessing congregation at beginning of mass6. Pan left across cardinals7. Zoom out from Benedict and priests at altar, AUDIO: organ musicSTORYLINE:Pope Benedict XVI presided over Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter's Basilica on Monday.A smiling Benedict, dressed in gold-colored vestments, waved to photo-snapping pilgrims and applauding church-goers as he glided up the centre aisle towards the ornate main altar of the cavernous basilica on a wheeled platform guided by white-gloved aides. The platform is employed to save the 85-year-old pontiff's energy.As a men's choir chanted, Benedict sprinkled incense around the altar, and wished the faithful "peace" in Latin.