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St. Louis Front Page Special Edition The Papal Visit "For all the news that is Saint Louis, Saint Louis Front Page."      
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 Pope John Paul II, waved from the Popemobile to thousands of people cheering and waving flags along Lindell Blvd during the first Papal motorcade from Skinker to Archbishop Justin Rigalli's residence. St. Louis Cheers for the Pope 
by Bob Moore, SLFP© 1999, Saint Louis Front Page (JAN 26) - The grassy area on the south side of Lindell was transformed into a festive playground as thousands of people waited patiently for Pope John Paul II's late arrival from Lambert Airport on Tuesday afternoon. Kids passed the time climbing trees, playing tag and wrestling with each other. Families enjoyed the wait talking with friends and sitting on blankets. On the north side of Lindell, many homeowners held "Pope Parties" for their guests on their front lawns across from Forest Park. Brad Epperson (photo right), aged five, stood on the edge of the bike path to display his banner to joggers and bikers. Alexa Elking, daughter of photographer Bernie Elking, walked around with her father's camera taking pictures of everyone. Teenagers, Margaret Formolo and Stephanie Carton entertained themselves with a friend's yo-yo. Suddenly, it was announced that there was a speeding motorcade heading down Lindell. Hearing the motorcycles, everyone rushed to the orange plastic fencing, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Pope. As the motorcade rushed past enroute to Archbishop Justin Rigali's residence, the crowd cheered and waved banners showing support for the Pope. For many, the quick moment was well worth the wait.  Pope John Paul II listened intently to testimonials of faith given by several young people, including Susan Vatterott. He wore a handmade stole designed by Sister Hiltrudis Powers of Granite City, IL. "Tonight the Pope belongs to you."
by Betty Magrath, SLFP Moments later, the crowd cheered wildly again as St. Louis Cardinal baseball player Mark McGwire personally welcomed the Pope. After many months of preparation and hours of rehearsals, the crowd rose to greet the Holy Father with a boisterous ovation. Arriving in a golf cart beautifully decorated for the event, the Pope smiled and waved back in appreciation. He climbed the stairs slowly to the stage which was decorated for the activities of the evening. "We are filled with hope and great love," said Archbishop Justin Rigali as he thanked the Pope for coming to St. Louis. "Holy Father, the young people of America love you." The Pope talked to the youthful gathering about what it means to train to live a Christian life. He noted that the impressive stadium had become another kind of training ground - not for hockey, or soccer, or baseball, adding that his speech didn't mention anything about football. Cheers erupted again when he named two great players, Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa. He challenged the youthful crowd to live in the light. "Christians are always in training," said the Pope. The crowd cheered as he added, "and the Pope also." The event featured testimonials from several youth, singing and dancing. As the Pope left Savvis Center in the Popemobile, he was heralded with cheers from the waiting crowd in the Papal Plaza. The historic event was culminated with a spectacular fireworks display from the top of Soldier's Memorial. 
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