Woman knocks down Pope at X'mas mass

Updated on: 25 December,2009 09:19 AM IST |
Agencies |

Mentally unstable woman jumped the barriers to reach the pontiff

Mentally unstable woman jumped the barriers to reach the pontiff

Commotion: Pope Benedict XVI is helped to his seat moments after the woman jumped barriers and knocked the pontiff down. pic/Getty Images

Pope Benedict XVI was walking down the aisle to begin the traditional Christmas Eve service when the woman made her move.

The pontiff's security guards rushed forward to help him back to his feet.

The Rev Ciro Benedettini said the pope quickly got up and was unhurt.

Benedict (82) calmly resumed his walk to the basilica's main altar and began the Mass to applause from worshippers.

Benedettini said the woman who pushed the Pope appeared to be mentally unstable and had been arrested by Vatican police.

He said she also knocked down Cardinal Roger Etchegaray, who was taken to hospital for a check up.

The Midnight Mass was brought forward to 10 pm to ensure the Pope had enough energy to deliver his Christmas message the following day.

Pope Benedict XVI needed time to rest before his duties on Christmas Day, Vatican officials said.

Mass preponed

It is the first time the traditional ceremony has begun at a time other than midnight and will ensure the Pope is refreshed in time for his Urbi et Orbi blessing fromSt Peter's at noon.u00a0

Vatican officials have been quick to deny the Pope was "anything other than in good health", but added, "The change is just a precaution you would take for any 82-year-old man. He is very busy and the early start will mean an earlier finish."

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