Basilica Marks Pope John Paul II's Baltimore Visit

BALTIMORE (WJZ)—A significant holy event at the Vatican is expected to draw millions to Rome this weekend. Two pontiffs will be named saints, including Pope John Paul II. The late pope has a special place in the hearts of many in Baltimore after his visit here in 1995.

Mary Bubala reports on how you can relive his visit to Baltimore.

Who can forget the day the pope came to Baltimore? There was an open air mass at Camden Yards with Pope John Paul II-- known as the people's pope-- who will soon be a saint.

Thursday, the Baltimore Archdiocese opened a special exhibit at the Basilica. It includes vestments, memorabilia and photos from the pope's day-long visit on Oct. 8, 1995.

There's also a piece of the altar used by the pope to celebrate Mass at Camden Yards and a special thank you note.

"Something very unique is the telegram the pope sent to Cardinal Keeler when he got back from Rome. Really just personally thanking the cardinal and the entire city of Baltimore for the warm welcome he received," said Sean Caine, Baltimore Archdiocese.

Now some eight years after his death, Pope John Paul II will be raised to sainthood with Pope John the XXIII.

The joint canonization ceremony is the first in church history.

Both are credited with curing terminally ill who prayed to them.

Many think the pope, who graced our city for one day, is much deserving of sainthood.

Mark Pacione planned and orchestrated part of the pope's visit to our city.

"To think that all his greatness is recognized is not unexpected, but to think that he was a man like us and came here and was with us,  gives us inspiration to how we want to live our lives," Pacione said.

And for young lives, passing through the exhibit is a way to connect to the pope.

"It feels like he's here," one person said.

"I think it's really exciting to be here," said another.

The exhibit will be open during the Basilica's normal hours and is free of charge.

Baltimore Archbishop William Lori flew to Rome on Wednesday for Sunday's ceremony.

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