Excitement Grows For Pope's Upcoming Visit
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The excitement is growing for the Pope's upcoming US visit.
Amy Yensi reports the anticipation is good for business.
Pope Francis will be celebrating a Mass here in about four weeks---and visitors are making sure to commemorate the historic event.
A public figure with a populist touch---that's how Pope Francis has reached pop star status.
"I'd love to see him personally. I hope I can do that," said Olivia Leyson.
Next month, the Pontiff will visit the US for the first time. His six-day tour along the East Coast, from DC to New York City, includes a Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC.
The gift shop there is seeing a spike in demand for all things Pontiff. Shop manager Amy Maloney says Pope Francis display needs restocking every day and t-shirts are the hot item. Sales at the shop support the National Shrine, but independent vendors are also cashing in on the upcoming Papal visit.
"It's a runaway success. We are very busy, especially on the weekends. We have other items but this is the category that's in demand," said Maloney.
Pope Francis often speaks out about capitalism and greed. On Tuesday, he Tweeted, "A Christian who is too attached to riches has lost his way."
Maloney says it's important to strike the right balance: having these mementos while still respecting the Pope and what he stands for.
"We want to be joyfully solemn," Maloney said. "No bobbleheads, no Pope dolls."
The Pope Francis merchandise is not Vatican approved, but stop managers expect items bearing his face and name will reign supreme long after his visit.
The Mass at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception will be on September 23.
