In one of the most significant gatherings at the Vatican since the election of Pope Leo XIV, more than 80,000 individuals filled St. Peter’s Square for the Grace for the World concert on September 13, which was succeeded by an awe-inspiring drone display by Nova Sky Stories. Over 3,000 drones illuminated the night sky, crafting visuals of the Virgin Mary, Pope Francis, and Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam above St. Peter’s Basilica.

Taking place in honor of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, the event also celebrated the conclusion of the 2025 World Meeting on Human Fraternity. This two-day summit united global leaders, artists, and advocates at the Vatican to contemplate humanity’s responsibility amid pressing social and environmental challenges and swift technological advancements.

Pope Leo XIV, originally from Chicago, brings a contemporary, distinctly American viewpoint to his papacy, which was evident in the concert’s lineup. Co-directed by Andrea Bocelli and Pharrell Williams, the grand event included performances by Williams, John Legend, Karol G, Jennifer Hudson, BamBam, Clipse, Teddy Swims, Jelly Roll, and others in front of the vast audience.

Williams commenced the event by encouraging the audience to recognize humanity’s collective strength “far beyond the confines and divides of various religions.” Cardinals, clerics, and advocates—including Nelson Mandela’s widow, Graça Machel Mandela—also shared impactful messages advocating for unity and peace. The evening concluded with a stunning display of choreographed drones, creating visuals of the late Pope Francis, halos, doves of peace, and luminous hearts in the sky.

With nearly two years dedicated to planning, the drone show was undoubtedly a worthwhile endeavor. Nova Sky Stories utilized 3,500 drones, with 3,000 airborne at any moment while the remainder recharged in succession. Each half hour, the drones switched seamlessly without the audience noticing. Even if one was pushed off course by the wind, it was designed to navigate back to its intended spot.

Beyond its technical excellence, the imaginative light show evoked deep emotions among spectators. As Bocelli performed “Amazing Grace” in honor of the late Pope Francis, the crowd grew silent when his image manifested in lights, then burst into applause. Kimbal Musk, founder of Nova Sky Stories, remarked, “You can astonish audiences with drones, but ultimately, if we can make grandma cry…Yeah, you want to reach their feelings.”

Over 80,000 individuals gathered at St. Peter’s Square for the Grace for the World concert on September 13, succeeded by an extraordinary drone show by Nova Sky Stories.

More than 3,000 drones illuminated the night sky, creating images of the Virgin Mary, Pope Francis, and Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam above St. Peter’s Basilica.

The grand event showcased performances by Pharrell Williams, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, and others.

View clips from the remarkable drone show below.

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