Bishop Zubik Heading To Rome For Canonization Of 2 Popes
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The Catholic Church is set to canonize Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II this Sunday.
They'll receive sainthood for their accomplishments during their papacies.
Pope John XXIII was pontiff from 1958 to 1963. He is credited with ushering in the modern Catholic Church in the '60s.
Pope John Paul II won over the hearts of many Catholics during his time as pontiff from 1978 to 2005.
Bishop David Zubik and some other local Catholics are making the trip for the canonization.
Bishop Zubik told KDKA's Brenda Waters, "A pilgrimage is not a vacation, it is a journey of Christians to very important spots of faith in Rome."
This journey for 88 pilgrims out of Pittsburgh begins Friday afternoon on a flight to Rome. The historical event will take place Sunday at Saint Peters Square.
Packing for the journey, Donna Carosella of Upper St. Clair says, "I think, for me, it will be a spiritual renewal."
Donna's son and husband will also make the trip.
Even Bishop Zubik, who has gone to Rome more times than he can count, says this trip will have special meaning for him.
Pope John XXIII was pope when the bishop was a teenager, but Pope John Paul II changed his life.
"Pope John Paul II is the one I had a connection with. He is the pope who appointed me bishop of Green Bay and I had the chance to meet with him on any numerous occasions."
This indeed is a journey of a lifetime, aa history making moment and a spiritual experience of growth and vision. The Pittsburgh group will be returning Thursday, May 1.
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