Maplewood Catholics will have
a presence when Pope Francis celebrates mass in Madison Square Garden today as
Father Manolo Punzalan of St. Joseph’s Church attends the religious service,
according to Rev. James Worth, the St. Joseph’s pastor.
“My associate, Fr. Manolo
is blessed to attend the Mass in NYC. He will represent our parish and take our
intentions with him. I will be there in Spirit and watching it all on
television,” Worth told Maplewoodian.com. “Pope Francis cares very much about
all of us and his visit to the United States shows that compassion in a very
real way. I am thrilled that he has chosen our area of the world to bring his
tremendous spirit of humility and service.”
Asked how his parish is
responding to the visit, Worth said, “My people are thrilled that he is coming.
They all love him and admire his zeal for the poor and disenfranchised of
society.”
Rev. Worth also praised
the Pope’s recent support for gay Catholics, climate change response,
immigrants and even the new compassion for women who’ve had abortions.
“Pope Francis isn't
teaching anything new. He is simply presenting God's love in a simple way,”
Worth said. “A way in which everyone can understand. God has created all
things. We are the stewards of creation. The Pope is trying to make us more
accountable for our actions which is what we all need. My congregation is very
diverse. The Holy Father is bringing God's love to everyone unconditionally.
That's what Jesus would do if He was here.”
Asked what he would say
to Pope Francis if he had a chance to speak with him on his trip, Worth said: “I
would thank him for all that he is doing to bring love and service back as a priority
in our world.”
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