Papal Pilgrimage: Independence Mall

Under a bright blue sky on Independence Mall, crowds of people thronged along the side of the rode, awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis. The cacophony of eager voices resounded through the square in a multitude of languages- each carrying its own hopes and dreams for the anticipated moment. We shared the stories of what brought us here: a school teacher from Ohio on a mission to deliver letters from her class, a young immigrant from Mexico seeking a better life, a religious Sister from Philadelphia eager to welcome the pontiff to her home-city, a mother and son from Ecuador seeking U.S. citizenship, fair labor, and his blessing in their time of trial.

What a supreme honor to be in the midst of this crowd- to be present in welcoming the Holy Father to the city of Brotherly Love. It was to this filial love that he challenged us:

“In a world where various forms of modern tyranny seek to suppress religious freedom… it is imperative that the followers of the various religions join their voices in calling for peace, tolerance and respect for the dignity and rights of others.”

The Holy Father’s words were poignant. They personally called me to question: what have I been doing for society and what more can I do for the good of all?

As Pope Francis concluded his speech and the sea of people flowed into the streets, the conversations resumed. In the sharing of stories with each pilgrim along the way, we entered into the call of the Holy Father to reverence the rights of others. Hearing other’s stories allowed us to enter into a sacred space where we came to know each other’s pains, sufferings, hopes, and joys. This genuine interest in the other, I realized, is the fundamental foundation of peace that is so needed in our world.