Families, faith and Pope Francis

Palus family in Philadelphia to attend papal Mass

A Coeur d’Alene family is among thousands of Catholics gathered in Philadelphia this week for an international conference featuring an appearance by Pope Francis.

Rob Palus and his family, parishoners of St. Pius X Church, were sent to the East Coast city along with about 100 other Idaho families to represent the state at the World Meeting of Families.

The Vatican-sponsored conference seeks to strengthen the bonds of family. The pontiff is expected to attend a Saturday night festival and celebrate a Mass on Sunday.

“I am very excited to witness Pope Francis’ first visit to the United States and attend a papal Mass,” Palus said. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and to share it with my wife and three daughters is so very special.”

Palus said he feels the pope has challenged Catholic Church members to be more faithful to their call of service to the world. To be successful, that mission of love must start at home, he said.

The Rev. Roger LaChance of St. Pius X said the Palus family was chosen to attend the conference because they are very active in their faith and the church.

“The Paluses are very astute and good. They are on a task,” LaChance said. “They will bring back information to help us better minister to our families.”

Palus said his family feels privileged to have this opportunity. He said they are learning much during the humbling experience.

“We have listened to several dynamic speakers talking about family,” Palus said. “We prayed with a group of over 10,000 fellow Catholics representing over 100 nations from around the world.”

In addition to being there to serve his church, Palus said he is looking forward to the personal experience.

“I will dwell on my faith and relationship, contemplate what I’m doing right, what I’m doing wrong and what I need to do to be a better husband, father, son and servant to my community and fellow man,” Palus said.

He said they have had meals with lovely host families and spent time with others from Idaho.

Palus said the trip so far has been fruitful for his faith and his family. The highlight for them will come Sunday when the pope celebrates Mass.

Jamie Sedlmayer can be contacted at jsedlmayer@cdapress.com.