Holy Family priest prepares for Pope’s visit

By Colleen Bormann

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- On Monday morning, Holy Family Parish is hosting an all-school mass at 8:30 a.m. to send off its priest on a unique journey. 

Father Glenn Kohrman, along with priests from all over Michiana, are heading East to celebrate the Pope’s first visit to the United States. He’s also planning in attending and participating in the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia.

“When I heard there would be a World Meeting of Families, I felt this was appropriate because this is Holy Family Parish. I want to try and go out there and learn more about it,” said Father Glenn.

His church has a special connection to the World Meeting of Families.

“I thought this World Meeting of Families would be a great opportunity to see what’s going on and learn a little bit more and bring back information that can help our parish be that guide to all families to help them pursue the truth and live it,” said Father Glenn.

The week-long conference started back in 1994 to strengthen the sacred bond of the family. There will be events held throughout the week, starting September 22 and ending September 25. Following the events, the Pope visits Philadelphia from September 26-27. On the last day of the visit, Pope Francis will hold a special mass. Father Glenn plans to attend that mass.

“I just think it’s going to be great,” said Father Glenn. “There will be a lot of opportunities to ask questions and draw into that deeper reflection and that’s the beauty and notability of the family.” 

While he plans to attends the various events and masses held throughout the week, he doesn’t anticipate a close encounter with the Pope. Still, he says he will be thinking and praying about his parishioners and family back at home.