September 4, 2015
Dear Friends in Christ,
As Pope Francis’ visit to the United States draws close, the excitement is palpable. This historic, spiritual event will bring joy to millions of Catholics. Those of us who live in the Diocese of Wilmington are especially blessed to be
located so close to the papal event sites in Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.
To get ready for the Holy Father’s arrival, I invite you and your family to attend a holy hour that will take place in most of our parishes in Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore on Monday, September 21st from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. During this time of prayer, held on the eve of Pope Francis’ arrival in the United States, we will ask God to bless the Holy Father, grant him a safe trip, and allow his words and actions to enliven our hearts so that we might grow in our love of God and care for the poor and most vulnerable.
We will also pray for the success of the World Meeting of Families and for our own families. This holy hour will be a family event, so bring the children and grandparents as we join together as a diocese to spiritually prepare for Pope Francis’ arrival.
May God bless us, our families, and Pope Francis.
Sincerely,
Most Reverend W. Francis Malooly
Bishop of Wilmington
