THE POPE IS COMING!

In a few short months, Pope Francis will be in the United States!

World Meeting of Families, from September 21-27, 2015, will be the destination for the first Papal visit to Philadelphia. While the official appearance has not yet been scheduled, it is expected that the Pope arrives sometime on the 26th or 27th.

Our Pope has a large, genuine interest in the care of people and families across the world. Therefore, we are pleased to have his presence during this year’s extravagant event. The theme is “Love Is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive.” We fully relate with this mission as St. Jude Shop is owned and operated by three generations of our DiCocco family.

The World Meeting of Families began in 1994 under Saint Pope John Paul II. In an effort to strengthen families bonds across the globe, the World Meeting of Families is a sacred event held every three years. This is the first time the event has been held in the United States.

In a press release from World Meeting of Families last November, Archbishop Charles Chaput said, “As I’ve said many times before, I believe that the presence of the Holy Father will bring all of us - Catholic and non-Catholic alike - together in tremendously powerful, unifying and healing ways. We look forward to Pope Francis’ arrival in Philadelphia next September, and we will welcome him joyfully with open arms and prayerful hearts.”

We are looking forward to the outward, joyful love that will surround our city in the coming months. If you’re interested in attending World Meeting of Families, you can read more information in our World Meeting of Families blog as well as their website.

We’ll keep you updated with more information regarding the attendance of our Pope as we hear further. As the World Meeting of Families official website says, “The Pope is coming… Get Social!” #PopeInPhilly

Finally, you'll want something to take away from your Papal witness. St. Jude Shop proudly offers Pope Francis religious goods that you can take to get blessed in September.