Welcome to the home stretch of Pope Francis' inaugural visit. The pontiff arrives in Philadelphia Saturday for the World Meeting of Families, a triennial gathering that is the largest of Catholic families.
Here's a look at the agenda for today:
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 10:30 a.m.
Francis celebrates Mass at the mother church of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The place was built in the mid-1800s with no street-level windows, a reminder of the anti-Catholic riots that took place at the time.
Independence Hall, 4:45 p.m.
Francis will give a speech on immigration and religious freedom, standing at the same lectern that President Abraham Lincoln used to deliver the Gettysburg Address.
U.S. & World
Festival of Families, World Meeting of Families, Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 7:30 p.m.
Francis visits the Festival of Families, a celebration of family life around the world that is part of the World Meeting of Families. Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and Colombian rock musician Juanes are to perform for Francis.
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We will cover all the day's biggest events live with live streams on our website and in our app. Click here for full coverage of the papal visit.
Philadelphia Forecast
Expect a cool and breezy weekend with temperatures in the mid-70's, according to NBC10's First Alert Weather team.
If You're in Town:
Francis' arrival means the virtual closure of the city's core, major interstates and more. Here's a schedule of what's closing when. But don't despair. Google Maps will help drivers navigate road closures and it turns out that parking may not be so hard to find. For those taking public transit, check out this survival guide. Still have questions? Check out this list of FAQs.
In Case You Missed It
- NYC Girl Blessed by Pope: 'I Know I Will Walk Again'
- Watch: Moments From Past Papal Visits
- Pennsylvania Congressman Grabs Drinking Glass Used by Pope, Takes Sip
- Pope Francis' Top Moments in NYC
- Pope Francis' Top Moments in Washington, D.C.
- Social Media Reacts to Mo Rocca Reading at Papal Mass
[NATL] Top Photos From Pope Francis' U.S. Visit
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