Young Priest To See 'People's Pope' Back Home In Philadelphia
DENVER (CBS4) - A Roman Catholic priest from Northglenn is excited to be leading a pilgrimage to Philadelphia to see Pope Francis.
It is a trip home for him, and a chance for this young priest to be in the presence of the "People's Pope."
Father Joe Doman says his love of Jesus led to a life choice.
"I felt like he was inviting me to the priesthood and I couldn't say no," said Father Joe.
So in May of 2014, Joe Doman, the ninth of ten children, was ordained a Catholic priest.
"The reality is I'm like a regular dude, regular sinner like anybody," he said.
The 30-year-old now serves the Immaculate Heart of Mary parish in Northglenn. Just over a year into his priesthood, Father Joe will lead a pilgrimage to Philadelphia, where he grew up in the suburbs. He'll see his family and the Holy Father Pope Francis.
"You know they call him the 'Impromptu Pope' or the 'Cold Call Pope.' He wants to interact with people in a very personal way," said Father Joe.
He's also a pope who has riled conservatives, with his talk about climate change and free markets, and left liberals wondering if he'll make changes on divorce and homosexuality.
"When you have people on both sides telling you you're too extreme, maybe you're actually right where you need to be," said Father Joe.
Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia coincides with the World Meeting of Families that Father Joe's group will attend. They'll join the thousands, if not millions, at the Pope's closing mass on the steps where boxer Rocky Balboa trained in the movie 'Rocky.'
"I hope he runs up the steps. Wouldn't that be sweet," said Father Joe.
Father Joe Doman expects excitement, renewal, and perhaps, a moment of grace in what he believes will be an unforgettable event.
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.
