Pope Francis Preparations in Jerusalem

Pope Francis is on his way to the Middle East for a quick visit.

Before his arrival in Jerusalem, Israel,

signs have been posted in English

and Hebrew,

lots of signs,

and lots of Vatican flags.

Tens of thousands of tourists are expected,

including hundreds of journalists and photographers.

Rabbi Abraham Skorka from Argentina, is a close friend of Pope Francis

 going back more than 20 years.

They co-authored a book and anchored a TV show together

before Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio became Pope.

 Skorka was involved in planning this Papal visit

 to the Holy Land from its inception,

he said every detail has been carefully examined.

The steps at Heichel Shlomo got a power wash,

while inside,

in the hall where the Chief Rabbis will greet the Pope,

the current photo exhibit was carefully removed.

Special pieces from the Museum on the third floor were

 brought down just for the Pope’ s Monday visit.

On Monday parking will be limited.

Streets will be closed.

Security and barriers are already up at Beit Hanasi, the President’s residence.

Preparations are so extensive that one woman told me she was already,

all poped out.

But my favorite,

in preparation for the Pope,

Paris Fountain

was having a bubble bath to get clean.

Last Papal visit in May of 2009,

I really wanted to see the Pope Mobile,

but Pope Benedict arrived in a regular limo.

Will be interesting to see what will happen this time.