Pope Announces Visit To East Coast In 2015

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The holy father is coming to the United States. Pope Francis will be attending a special international meeting in Philadelphia celebrating families.

Tracey Leong has more.

This will be his first visit to the U.S. and right now, it is only confirmed that he'll be stopping in Philadelphia---but many people are hoping the pope will add Baltimore to that visit.

When Pope Francis steps out to greet a crowd, he gets a rock star welcome---which is contrary to the leader's character. He's known as a humble man who opts for the simple life.

"His personality, his warmth, his outreach to the poor and simplicity all make him more attractive," said Archdiocese of Baltimore spokesman Sean Caine.

During his 20-month papacy, he has been praised for his willingness to confront controversial issues, as well as his dedication in bringing people of all backgrounds and beliefs together.

"People love him. He really connects with people and makes them feel welcomed and affirmed," said Marriage and Family Life coordinator Lauri Przybysz.

Pope Francis' debut visit to the U.S. will be to Philadelphia in 2015 for the eighth world meeting of families. More than a million and a half are expected to attend the mass in Philadelphia, including many people from Baltimore.

"It would be an exciting opportunity to meet the Pope," said Maryland resident B.J. Arseneau.

"[Coming] into his presence would be a wonderful blessing," said Patricia Schmidt.

It was not too long ago that a Pope visited nearby. Pope Benedict XVI visited D.C. in 2008 and Pope John Paul II visited Baltimore in 1995.

"People to this day still talk about how special that was, how meaningful that was," Caine said. "Not just for Catholics but people of all faiths."

Since the Baltimore Basilica is the first cathedral in America, many think it would be appropriate for the leader of the Roman Catholic Church to make an extra stop.

"It has such significant historical, religious relevance for everyone in the United States and in Baltimore," Schmidt said.

The mass in Philadelphia will be open to everyone. No tickets are required but hotels in the area are said to be booking up quickly in the approach of his visit. That visit will be in September 2015.

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