Local pilgrim prepares to volunteer at pope’s visit

A southern Colorado woman is heading to Philadelphia to volunteer during the pope’s visit, hoping to meet the pontiff.

Rosalie Pea is the Parish Social Ministry Coordinator for Catholic Charities. She said Pope Francis inspires her in her everyday work.

“He is encouraging peace throughout the world, helping the poor, the vulnerable,” she said.

Pea leaves for Philadelphia Wednesday. She is going with a group from the Archdiocese of Denver. She will help Catholic Relief Services pack food for people in West Africa and will help people with disabilities find seating during the pope’s public events.

“You hear that old saying, be part of something bigger, well that’s what I wanted to do,” she said.

Pea hopes to meet the pope and even has a Broncos coaster she plans to give him.