The Diocese of Bismarck has around three dozen members on their way to Philadelphia to witness the historical first visit of Pope Francis to the United States. 

Janet Stoner of Williston states her admiration quite eloquently:

He's such a wise person and so personable; and people from all over the world, even if they aren't Catholic, are so enthralled with him and what he has to say to the world that he's just made such an impact in his short time that he's been here. So, for that I just -- who wouldn't want to see him?

Catholics from the Diocese are joining many others from across the nation -- about a million altogether are expected to gather -- for the World Meeting of Families. From today (Sep. 22) until Sunday, September 27, according to KFYR-TV, the leader of the world's largest church will "hold a huge celebration of mass."

He will also visit the United Nations and speak with leaders in government.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina and made cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II, Pope Francis is the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church. Bergoglio was elected to the esteemed position by the papal conclave on March 13, 2013.

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