Thousands of people all over the world hope to one day see the pope. To be granted the opportunity to get this close to him is a difficult task for most. It is a wonderful day for this pilgrim traveling from the United States. Her dream of meeting the pope came true on a very special date.
'All my life, so it's a big celebration for my 50 birthday and this is one of the places that I really wanted to come. Spiritually and physically. And a special moment because of all of the diversity and culture that's here and especially with my family.â?
This family is traveling from the US. Although they do not speak Italian, they shared, with the pope, another universal language that transcends across all borders.
'We don't speak the language and we could not comprehend it all but I assure you we could feel the love and as I go back to America I will advise all of my Catholic friends that this is a journey that they must make because of the experience. Because it's an incredible experience.â?
While some of them prefer to come to Rome as a family to see the pope, others prefer to travel with a group of friends.
This is the case for these Spanish pilgrims who listened to Pope Francis' speech during his Wednesday catechesis with intensity.
'It was such an emotional gift. Especially, when he says that mercy, both in Jesus and in us, is a journey that starts from the heart to goes to the hands. We feel that this is a moment everyone should experience. The crowd control, security and long lines are not easy but its for a reason. It really is an intense moment.â?
Despite Rome's August heat, they all say it was worth it. Undoubtedly, a visit that will not be forgotten. In fact, some of the pilgrims plan on returning next year.
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