Locals Seize Rare Opportunity to See and Hear Pope Francis

Haverhill funeral directors Lawrence A. “Lorenzo” Carnevale and Joshua J. Rogers were among those who attended Pope Francis’ mass at the World Meeting of Families gathering in Philadelphia.

An opportunity by two Haverhill funeral directors and others in the local community to see Pope Francis during his visit to the United States is being described, in one example, as “a once in a lifetime experience.”

Paul C. Rogers Family-Carnevale Funeral Home Funeral Director and Victor Emanuel Lodge No. 1646 Order of Sons Of Italy Past President Lawrence A. “Lorenzo” Carnevale attended the World Meeting of Families gathering in Philadelphia along with associate Joshua J. Rogers.

“Our family was honored to attend the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia for the visit of Pope Francis,” the statement said. “Josh Rogers and Larry “Lorenzo” Carnevale were able to see The Holy Father and take part in a beautiful celebration. The crowds were amazing and having the opportunity to snap a photo of Pope Francis as he drove by in the Pope Mobile was a once in a lifetime experience. We thank His Holiness for visiting our country and inspiring our faith.”

Also during Pope Francis’s visit to Washington, D.C. last week, Haverhill Public Schools Social Studies Curriculum Director Rashaun Martin joined thousands of well-wishers to see Pope Francis there, according to a school department spokesperson.

“Mr. Martin stood at the fence lining the route to the Catholic University of America to view the pope in his Jeep Wrangler Popemobile as he made his way to say Mass and and to cannonize Blessed Junipero Serra, a Franciscan Friar who, in the 18th century, founded several missions that later became major cities in California,” the spokesperson said. “It is a historic moment, as it is the first Mass Pope Francis was to celebrate in America.”

“The excitement of the crowds obviously energized the pope, who asked his driver to make a second circle around the loop leading to the entrance of the Basilica. Pope Francis waved, a huge smile lighting his face.”