Pope To Visit U.S.

Its been nearly a decade since the pope has stepped foot in American soil. But Tuesday, when he arrives in the states, that lengthy streak will be put to an end. Although he will only visit the capitol and New York city, local catholics look forward to his arrival. It doesnt happen very often the Pope comes to the united states. In fact, the last papal visit to the U.S. was in January of 99 when the pope met with then President Clinton. This is the first time, though, Benedict, who became Pope three years ago, will visit the states as Pope. Bishop Gerald Gettelfinger was personally invited to D.C. to greet Benedict and will speak with him one on one. "All the bishops after we speak with him at the shrine we have a chance to greet him." Meeting the Pope is nothing new to Gettelfinger. Hes met Benedict on a few occasions. Its the Popes words he looks forward to most. "I think his message will be a message of hope." He knows at least 25 locals whore traveling to New York to see the pope. Lisa Covington wanted to be one of those, but her schedule wouldnt allow it. "I think its a great opportunity for people who are going." The Popes trip encompasses a visit to the White House, ground zero, a mass at Yankee Stadium and an address to the United Nations, where Gettelfinger believes hell speak on human rights. Others speculate the popes visit is to smooth out sexual abuse scandals seen in too many catholic churches. "His hope is to heal that but rather than to delve into it in any formal way, message of hope." According to some reports, many victims feel the Popes words wont be enough to heal the wounds, they want him to take action. A huge action, many say, is making a presence in the United States, and in these six days Americans will be getting their first glimpse and opinions of Pope Benedict.