Even North Texans who couldn’t travel to see the Pope during his visit to the U.S. still found ways to participate in this week’s events.
Thousands of people are expected to show up at Klyde Warren Park Sunday for a live simulcast of Pope Francis delivering Mass from Philadelphia.
But even though the Pope is hundreds of miles away from Dallas, his visit to the U.S. has many excited right here in North Texas.
“We admire our Pope,” said Sandra Cortinas, Director of business administration at the Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin Guadalupe. “He is the people's Pope.”
Pope Francis brings excitement and joy with him on his first visit to the United States.
Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins and Father Rudy Garcia of Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin Guadalupe in Dallas are in Washington, D.C. for the historic occasion.
“I must say, I was very proud, very proud of my country and very proud of the Church on this momentous occasion,” said Father Garcia.
The two men sat in the front row at the White House to listen to Pope Francis's and President Obama's speeches.
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“It was a once in a life time experience,” said Jenkins. “Both the Pope and the president were incredibly eloquent.”
The excitement made its way from D.C. to North Texas, where Catholics embraced this rare and special moment in history.
“He’s not here to take political sides,” said Dr. Jonathan Sanford, a Professor of Philosophy and Dean of Constantin College at the University of Dallas. “He’s here to be with his people and that's what his people are excited about.”
Preparations for the simulcast at Klyde Warren Park will begin Saturday night and the Mass will air Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
“Regardless of your faith, he has touched many hearts because he is such a simple and just man,” said Cortinas.
