Redemptoris Mater Chapel

Located just outside the doors of the papal apartments, the chapel is notable for its various mosaics similar to early Byzantine religious artwork,[1] and is reserved for the exclusive use of the Pope.

The cost of renovation for the chapel itself was a gift from the College of Cardinals to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Pope John Paul II's sacerdotal ordination in 1996.

[2] The current Apostolic Preacher, Capuchin Friar Father Raniero Cantalamessa often presides over the homilies in the chapel, which was occasionally used by Pope Benedict XVI.

Pope John Paul II viewed the chapel as an ecumenical symbol for the various Eastern and Western churches who unite themselves in the papacy.

[8] There is also a grand mosaic of the Blessed Virgin Mary as Mother of the Redeemer in the front center wall, particularly requested and admired by Pope John Paul II.