Officials in Rome are estimating that a million pilgrims are already in the city in anticipation of this Sunday’s dual canonizations of Blessed John XXIII and Blessed John Paul II with at least another million or two more expected.

Catholic Online is reporting that Rome is expecting record-breaking crowds this weekend as pilgrims from around the world converge on the Eternal City for the canonization of two popular popes and to attend the first ceremony presided over by two living pontiffs – Francis and Benedict XVI.

“Across Rome and throughout much of Italy, hotel rooms are booked beyond capacity, and residents are taking in strangers who would otherwise be sleeping on the streets, such is their loyal devotion to their faith,” Catholic Online reports.

Officials are expecting 3-4 million pilgrims this weekend along with 19 heads of state and 24 prime ministers. Many churches in and around Rome will be kept open throughout the night before the canonizations. Although they will not be able to provide food or large sanitary facilities, many believe pilgrims will use the grounds for sleeping because so many people are unable to find rooms in the city.

“Among the pilgrims, the talk is mostly about John Paul II and if he will be dubbed ‘The Great.’ If he is so entitled, he will be just the fourth pope in history to earn the sobriquet,” Catholic Online reports. “Pope John XXIII is often referred to as ‘the Good Pope’ because he was devoted to the cause of the poor and downtrodden.”

Most of the world’s billion-plus Catholics will be watching the events unfold during live coverage provided by EWTN.

© All Rights Reserved, Living His Life Abundantly®/Women of Grace®  http://www.womenofgrace.com