ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Pope Francis wrapped up his first full day in the United States after a Mass in the nation’s capital Wednesday, a parade and a historic visit to the White House.
He'll visit New York City later in the week, then Philadelphia by the weekend.
More than 50 members of a central Florida Catholic church are preparing to join the pope in Philadelphia.
Special Section: Pope Francis U.S. Visit
Members said being in the mere presence of the Holy Father will be an incredibly humbling experience.
“Feeling his eye contact and feeling his message (will) empower us to come here with more enthusiasm,” said Weyne Araujo.
When 60 members of Resurrection Catholic Church in Winter Garden leave for Philadelphia Thursday night, they'll be ready to indulge in a life-changing event.
“So it's going to be very blessed for us to have the opportunity to be close to him,” said Regina Ferreria. “We won't have a chance again to see a pope close to us.”
Getting to this point took months.
The members raised money to pay for a bus to take them to Philadelphia.
They’ll stay just outside the city.
Some members scored free tickets to a Mass on Sunday at the conclusion of the World Meeting of Families.
On Wednesday, Pope Francis held a midday prayer with bishops of the United States at St. Matthew's Cathedral in Washington.
It was part of his first full day on U.S. soil.
The pope addressed the president and other leaders during a welcome ceremony at the White House, which was attended by thousands.
He talked about how he supports the president’s efforts on climate change and immigration issues.
Pope Francis will address Congress Thursday and will visit the World Trade Center site while in New York.
He departs for Rome Sunday night.
WFTV
