news out of the vatican. the former pope emeritus benedict has died at the age of 95. with sorrow, we inform you that the pope emeritus benedict xvi passed away, today, this morning, at 9:34 in the mater echess yamon tia mona stare. he was the first pope to resign, rather than stay in office for life. he was a controversial at times member of church. let s go to barbie nadeau in st. peter s square right now. barbie, i m curious, there were a lot of people already in the square and then the news breaks. so what s the reaction? what are people talking about there? reporter: yeah, you know, it s a mixed reaction, because a lot some people didn t know. some people here in rome enjoying a day. the square is empty behind us right now, they re doing a security check because pope francis is going to be coming out here in the next hour or so to visit the nativity scene there. we ve got a lot of pilgrims pushed off the square. they re coming back. but the mood is very solemn.
that this event is safe and fun for everybody. so that means, you know, bag screenings, security screenings. do not bring umbrellas or large backpacks or blankets or chairs. you want to make sure you have as little as possible on you to get through that screening. and of course, the big star of the show is that crystal ball, more than 11,000 pounds, it s made up of waterford crystal, and it will go up at night, and come down right as the new year rings in. 2023, it will be an iconic celebration. the only way it can be done right here in new york city. okay, gloria, no port-a-potties, though, we were saying. you will probably have access to a toilet because you re part of the media. but what about the thousands of others who are showing up? what s your best advice to them? reporter: i have none. my advice is just come prepared. you re right. i am very privileged tonight. i will have access to a