The Director of the Holy See’s press office, Father Federico Lombardi gave another briefing to journalists where he gave details about official delegations scheduled to attend both the prayer vigil on Saturday night and the canonization Mass on Sunday morning.

Father Lombardi told journalists that over 90 official delegations from various countries plus 24 heads of state or royalty are due to attend the prayer vigil. More than a single prayer vigil, there will be a series of prayer vigils being held in at least 11 churches located in the central area of Rome in a number of different languages including English.

Turning the Canonization ceremony, Father Lombardi said as many as 150 cardinals and 1000 bishops will be concelebrating with Pope Francis. 93 official delegations from various countries and international organisations plus 24 heads of State are set to attend the Mass. Representatives from other major religions will also be attending the canonization ceremony including many Orthodox, Anglican, Jewish and Moslem officials.

Father Lombardi said he could not confirm the attendance of the Pope Emeritus at the Canonization Mass. He said Benedict XVI had been invited of course but it had been left up to him to decide whether or not to come.