South Florida

South Florida Seminarians Head to D.C. for Pope's Visit

A group of pilgrims from South Florida are heading to Washington, D.C. for Pope Francis' visit.

Approximately 160 seminarians took off Tuesday from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to see the Pope.

As you would imagine, they're hoping for a personal blessing, but are anxious to hear his message, as well for the whole country to get a chance to hear the word of the Catholic Church.

"I'm expecting to hear a message of love, a message of mercy," one seminary said.

They also expect to come back inspired, even reassured, about their choice to devote their lives to the study and practice of the priesthood.

"I think he's going to encourage us as the young future clergy to really get to work in our country," said Deacon Michael Hartley.

According to Monsignor David Toups of the St. Vincent DePaul Seminary in Boynton Beach, the highlight of the trip will be the Pope's speech in Philly at the World Meeting of Families.

"He wants to talk to families and remind all of us that family is the center and the nucleus of any society," Toups said. "He wants to restore a wonderful understanding of the gift of marriage between a man and a woman and talk about the dignity of all life from conception to natural death."

These seminaries, deacons and priests are a family of their own. They're so grateful the Pope is taking time to visit the United States.

They want everyone who tunes in to his speeches that deep down the Pope's word, in their opinion, is the word of Jesus Christ.

Contact Us