Pope Francis makes his historical visit to the borderland, specifically Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. For devout Catholics, this is a once in a lifetime chance to see the Pope in person. The El Paso Catholic Diocese was given 10,000 tickets to distribute to parishioners for the opportunity to be a part of the Papal Mass in Juarez. This stop in Juarez will be the last stop of his visit to Mexico. There are more than 250,000 people expected to hear the Pope’s mass in person. Another few thousand will flock to the Sun Bowl in a shared faith with their counterparts in Juarez.
Although the Pope is not stepping on US soil, the excitement and the preparing have been visible. All El Paso school districts, along with UTEP and EPCC, have closed their doors for the day. The school believed that they would not be able to fill the absences they were sure to have with personnel and just felt it was better to cancel classes. Many El Pasoans are expected to make the trek to Juarez on this historic day in Juarez history.
A special altar was built near the Estadio Juarez visible from the El Paso side of the border. The area has been transformed for this special visit from the Pope. Pope Francis hopes to share his message of hope and peace. I am sure those that see the papal visit in person or those watching on television will feel his message.
Published on 2016-02-17 08:51:27
