Ohio bishop returns home to Philadelphia for papal visit

CENTER CITY (WPVI) -- At the Holy Family Parish, it was a homecoming celebration Wednesday for Bishop Daniel Thomas of the Toledo Diocese.

"All my cousins always remind me, they said never forget you're a kid from Manayunk so being a Philadelphia native and a Manayunker, it's a real grace to be back," said Bishop Thomas.

During his visit, Bishop Thomas is leading a pilgrimage of several hundred for the World Meeting of Families.

Before ascending the Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, Bishop Thomas was baptized at the Holy Family Parish.

He wants to share that heritage with his parishioners.

"Tonight we will enjoy some Philadelphia treats and food, and then we're going be able to pray and celebrate vespers and adoration of the bust of sacrament together," said Bishop Thomas.

First-time visitor Gregory Fox of Port Clinton, Ohio, said he is looking forward to good food and laughter.

But this spiritual journey is about more than enjoying good eats. It's about delving into the Catholic faith, and seeing and hearing from Pope Francis.

"It's just a wonderful place to be, the historical event to see all the people and the excitement of millions of people around here," said Sister Donna Marie Appert of Little Flower Parish.

For Catholics the most anticipated event is the papal Mass, a once-in-a-lifetime event they may never get to experience again.

"In one sense you can say the best is yet to come so we're really excited about what's going to happen, and I think it's going to be electrifying, you know, to see the pope in town," said Monsignor Patrick Sweeney of Holy Family Parish. "I think his message is going to inspiring."