[NYer]

And for this glorious occasion, Benedict XVI today resurrected the red velvet mozzetta, with hood and ermine trim. (Notice the coat of arms on the also resurrected, Paul VI-style state stole.)

This is the traditional papal visit to the statue of the Immaculate Conception at the foot of the Spanish Steps -- where Popes have come to pray and lay wreaths on December 8, since time immemorial.