The world of Catholicism and the city of Philadelphia are both in mourning, following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88. In 2015, seven years prior to his passing, Pope Francis embarked on a visit to Philadelphia, which is now being remembered vividly by those who were there. During an interview with WGAL News 8, the Pope's spontaneous blessing of a 10-year-old boy in a wheelchair became a highlight of his trip. The boy, Michael Keating, received a personal blessing from the Pope before he ascended the staircase to meet dignitaries.
Witnessed by many, Chuck Keating, the Shanahan Marching Band's director and the father of the boy, expressed his overwhelming feeling. "Completely overwhelming. Can't even put into words. Just seeing him in person and coming over and giving my son a blessing and a kiss on the forehead. A dream come true," Keating told WGAL. The 2015 World Meeting of Families at the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia attracted hundreds of thousands of people, was marked by the Mass held by Pope Francis, and covered by Main Line Media News.
The recent announcement of the Pope's death brought forth a stream of reactions. As reported by NBC10, people are gathered outside the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Center City to pay their respects. Telemundo62's Valeria Aponte Feliciano reported live from the Vatican, where Catholics are remembering the life and service of the Pontiff.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was known for moments of personal connection that often broke through the formality of protocol. During his 2015 visit to Philadelphia, the Vatican confirmed that the Pope went off his prepared remarks for a freewheeling talk on family life. Activity in the city of Philadelphia halted to a standstill, all in preparation for the weekend's events, eagerly anticipating the Pope's presence and spiritual guidance, as Main Line Media News recounts to the days of yore.
_FXD.jpg){kind=link}