1962 Press Photo St. Peter's Basilica at Vatican City's Ecumenical Council

This was the scene today inside St. Peter's Basilica at Vatican City during the closing first phase of the Roman Catholic Ecumenical Council. Pope John XXIII, strained by Illness, announced his hope the council would conclude in a year. The 81-year-old Pontiff spoke for 22 minutes to council fathers for the ceremonial closing of the assembly's first phase. Council recesses until next September 8.

Photo is dated 1962.

Photo measures 10 x 8.25 inches.