VATICAN CITY - There has been a sudden commotion in St. Peter's Basilica as Pope Benedict XVI walked down the main aisle to begin the traditional Christmas Eve Mass.
As the procession made its way toward the altar gasps rang out through the public and a commotion could be seen among a group of clergymen. The procession came to a halt and bodyguards rushed to the trouble spot.
It was not immediately clear what had happened or if the incident involved Benedict, but the pope appeared unhurt and continued calmly on his way to start the Mass late Thursday.
The Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, said an elderly cardinal may have collapsed, but added he was still gathering information.
