By Catholic Review Staff
For those who hope to be a part of the largest gathering of Catholics in the US this year, Catholic Review Media is organizing a bus day trip to Philadelphia for pilgrims from the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Details about the papal Mass, scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 27, have not been released yet, but the Mass is expected to be held on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, with the altar near the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Anyone who wants to attend will likely have to walk a lot, and sit on the ground or stand for long periods.
“Expect a lot of waiting in lines – for bathrooms, for food, for getting into the area where the Mass will be held,” said Christopher Gunty, associate publisher of the Catholic Review, who is spearheading the trip coordination.
“Even if you’re there, you might not actually see Pope Francis,” he said. “You may see the pope on a large video screen like the folks in the Philippines or Rio de Janeiro did.”
Even so, many Catholics want to be a part of a celebration with a massive group of those who share their faith, perhaps as many as a million, despite the walking and the uncertainty.
Tickets for the bus pilgrimage will go on sale once the schedule is formally announced.
“Wear comfortable shoes and loose-fitting clothes,” Archbishop William E. Lori advised for those who plan to make the pilgrimage. “It’s different from a normal big crowd,” he told WBAL radio. “There’s no jostling. There’s a spirit of peace and joy. … Most people know that it’s going to be a sacrifice, but they just want to be near the pope in person.”
Some parishes or clusters are hoping to reserve a whole bus.
Those who travel with Catholic Review Media and the archdiocese will be provided with bottled water, a special rosary and a commemorative cap.
Catholic Review Media is working with Drew Forrester, event organizer and radio host with Drew’s Morning Dish. Forrester, a parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Baynesville, has extensive experience with bus trips, annually hosting tours from Baltimore to a variety of sporting events.
To indicate your interest in joining the bus pilgrimage and request more information, visit tinyurl.com/cr-phillybus
Also see:
Would you ride a bus to see Pope Francis in Philly?
Would you ride a bus to see Pope Francis in Philly?
This article was originally published March 17, 2015.