Pope Will Visit DC In September

WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- Excitement is growing for local Catholics as word spreads that Pope Francis will visit the region. The Vatican has announced the Pontiff will spend time in Washington DC in September as part of a week-long trip to the US.

Meghan McCorkell has details on where he will be.

This will be Pope Francis' first trip to the United States. He's expected to arrive in Washington DC September 22.

Six million people crowded the streets in the Philippines for a glimpse of Pope Francis this weekend. Those types of crowds are expected when the Pontiff visits the US in September.

The Pope announced the plans for a US trip himself. He'll spend time in New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC.

Local Catholics are already planning to make the drive.

"I requested to be off from my work right away," said Noime Vidal.

"As much as possible, we would like to be there and be present during his arrival in the states," said Jose Vidal.

While in DC, the Pope is expected to meet the president at the White House, speak before a joint session of Congress and say Mass at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the same church visited by Pope Benedict back in 2008.

"We're so happy and delighted to see another Pope coming to the US," said Corazon Sorra.

The last time a Pope came to Baltimore, it was John Paul II back in 1995. It was an unforgettable moment for Caroline Knott.

"My husband and I were part of the Baltimore City delegation and met him on the south lawn of the White House," Knott said.

The Pope said Mass in front of an overwhelming crowd at Camden Yards.

"People til this day still talk about how special that was, how meaningful that was," said Sean Caine, Archdiocese of Baltimore. "And again not just for Catholics, but for people of all faiths."

Worshipers expect Pope Francis' visit to the US to be just as meaningful.

While the Pope has announced his plans, the Vatican has not officially approved the schedule.

The Pope's US trip will culminate in a large outdoor Mass in Philadelphia that is expected to draw millions.