Catholics in the Midlands Prepare for Pope’s Visit
[gtxvideo vid=”AJr8igPg” playlist=”” pid=”rkijshg2″ thumb=”http://player.gtxcel.com/thumbs/AJr8igPg.jpg” vtitle=”pope visit”]
Columbia S.C. (WOLO) –Wednesday won’t be the first time Midland’s resident Kenneth Moffitt has been in the presence of the Catholic Church’s leader. “When you actually see the pope it’s a very special occasion, even if its just riding by in the pope mobile,” says Moffitt. But it will be the first time for Moffitt’s two children. As students at St.Joseph’s Catholic School both learn the holy father’s critical role as a church and world leader. Hannah Grace Moffitt says,”He helps people around the world especially those who live in poverty and people who are sick and people that have special needs.” In addition to his acts of kindness, the pontiff hasn’t shied away from discussion on controversial matters. Something teachers say is essential for a two century old religion in a modern world. “The catholic church has gone through some major issues over the last several decades and this pope is opening up and letting people see that we have to forgive,” says Vicki McNally, a teacher at St.Joseph Catholic School. Teachers here at St.Joseph’s say that Pope Francis has rejuvenated the catholic church and he shares a special connection with young catholics worldwide. According to McNally,”He’s merciful, he’s forgiving and I think our young catholic adults need that. They need to be welcomed back into the faith and he’s doing that with open arms.” As catholic’s of all ages anticipate the Pope’s stay in the states, Moffitt says he’s blessed to experience the once in a life time occasion with his children. “It’s something that I never thought I’d be able to do and to have him here in the United States and accessible, as accessible as he is I really can’t put it into words,” says Moffitt.
