Denver Couple Traveling To See Pope For The Second Time

DENVER (CBS4) - A couple from Denver is preparing to travel to Philadelphia to see Pope Francis. It will be the second time they will see the Holy Father in just over a year. She is a cradle Catholic, raised in the faith for her 42 years.

"Both my parents are devout Catholics, their parents are Catholics," said Laurie Vargas Barela.

Her husband, Daniel Barela, has come back to the faith. He embraced Catholicism on Easter 2014, just four months before they were married.

"To desire a closer relationship with God," said Daniel Barela, "You know, part of it is Pope Francis."

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And much to their amazement, Laurie and Daniel Barela began their life together with the blessing of the pope.

"It was a moment that was very epic," said Laurie.

The Barelas planned to honeymoon in Rome. They contacted the Vatican and were told to show up in their wedding attire. They ended up in a papal audience of 10,000 people but had a very personal meeting with the pope.

"He was talking just to us. He told us to be good to each other, to love each other, about forgiveness," said Laurie.

"He was so attentive," said Daniel.

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According to Laurie, "He blessed our rings. We got to speak to him in Spanish and it was really wonderful. We invited him to Denver!"

Now the Barelas will be seeing Pope Francis again. This time in Philadelphia at the "World Meeting of Families" and a papal mass.

This time, Laurie is pregnant.

"This baby's going to receive his blessing," Laurie said.

Daniel added, "It's a very special moment."

The Barelas say they feel joyous and fortunate to be so blessed. Pope Francis may not accept the couple's invitation to their home in Denver, but the Holy Father will always have a special place there.

Kathy Walsh is CBS4's Weekend Anchor and Health Specialist. She has been with CBS4 for more than 30 years. She is always open to story ideas. Follow Kathy on Twitter @WalshCBS4.