Kelly Clarkson Sings “Ave Maria” For the Pope

Sat, 19 April 2008

Kelly Clarkson, the first season’s winner of American Idol, sings a rousing rendition of the hymn “Ave Maria” for Pope Benedict XVI at Saint Joseph Seminary in Yonkers, New York on Saturday.

About 25,000 young worshippers rallied for the Popemobile (and Kelly).

“I was so excited to be asked to sing for the Pope,” Kelly. “I grew up singing church music, and it’s always been a dream of mine to perform ‘Ave Maria.’ To have that dream come true on such a special occasion is truly a blessing.”

Watch the video below of Kelly belting out “Ave Maria”!