In just a few days Pope Francis will be making his first formal visit to the United States and Valley Catholics say they are already feeling the excitement.
"He's different from any of the Popes we have ever had before. He's really down to earth and for the people," said Toni Dimond.
Scott Cassidy met Pope Francis in Rome last year. He says it was a life-changing experience.
"I was holding up my little girl and the Popemobile came by and the head of secret service came by and picked her up and he blessed her and blessed us and kissed her and handed her back," said Cassidy.
Pope Francis is scheduled to arrive in Washington D.C. on Tuesday. From there he will make visits in New York City and Philadelphia. In all, the Pope will spend six days in the United States. During that time he will meet with President Obama, give a speech before a joint session of Congress and say mass several times.
Valley Catholics we spoke with hope Pope Francis will bring with him a message of peace and change.
"In front of Congress I hope he tells them to get their acts together and do things for the people," said Dimond.
Cassidy says "I hope he challenges all of us to do the most for the most vulnerable people in our lives."
