A long time coming 

Pope's journey to Philadelphia actually began in 1992

 

PHILADELPHIA >> As the city and region become pivoted as the international focal point for Pope Francis’ visit the end of this month, the genesis of his trek to the City of Brotherly Love began in previous decades with his predecessor, Pope John Paul II.

 

In 1992, Pope John Paul II created the concept of the World Meeting of Families as a way to examine how the family has a role in the larger society and to create a mechanism for families to address their challenges and benefits.

 

Starting in 1994, the World Meeting of Families, sponsored by the Holy See’s Pontifical Council for the Family and the host diocese, has been held every three years at locations throughout the world.

 

This will be the first time the WMF is being held in the United States and as such, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is a co-sponsor. It will also be the first World Meeting of Families for Pope Francis since his election.