In his first trip in seven months,
Pope John Paul II arrived today on the Italian island of Ischia in the Bay of Naples, also known as the "Island of Eternal Youth".
The one-day visit will be a test of the physical stamina of the 82-year-old pontiff, wracked by Parkinson's disease and painful arthritis.
Citing time constraints, the pope has turned down an offer from the island's Bishop Filippo Strofaldi to take advantage of the thermal treatments for which the spas of Ischia are renowned.
Officials said a series of measures had been put in place to ensure that the pontiff is comfortable. These include two lifts to enable him to reach the altar and to descend into the vestry.
As a security measure, all ferry services to the island have been suspended for the day. But about 600 fishing boats have been allowed to drop anchor in front of where the pope will preside at a mass conducted by local bishops.
AFP