Area Catholic churches to hold diocese-wide prayer service for Pope Francis Sept. 21

The Most Rev. W. Francis Malooly, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington, has asked that parishes in the diocese hold a Holy Hour prayer service to spiritually prepare for Pope Francis’ visit. The Holy Hour will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the 57 Catholic parishes in Delaware and on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Monday, Sept. 21, the eve of the pope’s historic arrival in the United States.

“Having our parishes throughout the diocese praying together at the same time will unite us all,” said Malooly. “I invite every parishioner to bring their families and friends, and join as we ask God to bless the Holy Father, grant him a safe trip and allow his words and actions to enliven our hearts so that we might grow in our love of God and care for the poor and most vulnerable. We will also pray for the success of the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia and for our own families.”

The bishop has asked that parish schools, religious education programs and youth ministries reconsider all activities that evening so young people might participate in the Holy Hour with their families.

Malooly will preside at the Holy Hour that will take place at Saint John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington. For a listing of parishes in the diocese of Wilmington, go to www.cdow.org.

The Catholic Diocese of Wilmington was established in 1868 and comprises 57 parishes, 18 missions and 30 schools serving the State of Delaware and the nine counties of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. There are over 233,000 Catholics in the diocese.