Millions of people will join in the festivities and excitement of the pope’s visit. Sometimes, living in a buzzing metropolitan area like New York City, it’s easy to miss other people’s joy. Those feelings will be hard to miss when Francis steps out of the motorcade or smiles or waves from the Popemobile. The word catholic means universal, and the joyful, shared experience of coming together to welcome Pope Francis with other Catholics, other Christians, and people of other faiths and little-to-no faith will be a truly catholic experience.
#2 A Call to Action
Immigration. Climate Change. Caring for the poor. Sharing God’s mercy with others. It’s hard to imagine Pope Francis not addressing all of these when he speaks to Congress or world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly. And the pope’s message isn’t only for those who walk the halls of power. He’ll be calling everyone to join him in spreading a gospel of hope and a message of peace throughout the world.
#3 A Few Surprises
Pope Francis is a pope that keeps us guessing. From going off script to surprise visits, we’ve come to expect the unexpected from the pontiff. This trip will be no different! Watch for the pope to head off the beaten path or down a road less traveled while he makes his way along the Eastern Seaboard.
#4 The Conversation
Social media loves this pope! He’s photogenic, direct, and easily tweetable. The Internet will be buzzing with pope selfies and great pope quotes in the coming days. And don’t forget pope hashtags, which have emerged in abundance over the past few weeks! Stay on top of the pope chat by following #PopeFrancis #PopeinUS #FlatFrancis #WalkWithFrancis #WMF2015. And don’t forget to tell us why you’re #Popeful!
#5 A Lasting Spark
Pope Francis is bringing a new energy to what it means to live out your faith. We hope his visit to the United States will ignite the hearts and minds of young and old across the globe. #Popeful
