Pope Francis’ arrival at Juarez airport “opportunity of a lifetime”

The Abraham Gonzalez International Airport was filled with excitement as Pope Francis arrived and stepped foot into Juarez. People were more than ready to welcome him into their beloved city.

Thousands of people chanting and singing in honor of Pope Francis.

“I’m extremely happy because I know he’s helped people so I’m excited to see him and wave to me,” El Pasoan Natalia Caro said.

The private hangar at the Juarez airport transforming into a full blown stadium. Altar boys, a choir of nearly one thousand children and orchestras filled the stands.

Several people from the borderland also in attendance including two El Paso girls who were on a missionary trip with their church.

“it’s just really fun to bring up people we work in and we’re just really excited. I’m really happy,” Sofia Caro said.

Another woman, traveling across the border with her entire family.

“We came here at 4:30 in the morning! Elated. He gave a blessing to my daughter. We were very fortunate and it was a moving experience. Once on a lifetime,” Maria Elena Giner said.

And another El Pasoan, 5-year old Ivan Andres Avila who suffers from brittle bone disease–was among the children that greeted Pope Francis. His mother saying she’s elated:

“Feliz…Happy, excited,” Astrid Avila said.

Bishop Mark Seitz also there–getting a personal thank you from the pope himself.

“The pope so generous and so warm in bis greeting. He thanked me for organizing the gathering of the Sunbowl. So now we just need to make sure we’re there, representing,” Bishop Seitz said.