After months of unofficial speculation Pope Francis and the Vatican confirmed Monday he plans to visit Philadelphia next year to attend the Eighth World Meeting of Families.

“I wish to confirm according to the wishes of the Lord, that in September of 2015, I will go to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families,” said Pope Francis.  “Thank you for your prayers with which you accompany my service to the Church. Bless you from my heart.”

Archbishop Charles J. Chaput and a delegation of World Meeting of Families-Philadelphia 2015 organizers were present for the announcement, which the Holy Father made at the opening of the Humanum Colloquium on Monday.

The World Meeting of Families is a triennial global event that seeks to strengthen the bonds of family across the globe and highlight its intrinsic value to the good of society.  Next year it will be held in the United States for the first time under the theme “Love is our mission: the family fully alive.”

“I am overjoyed by Pope Francis’ announcement that he will join with us for the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia next year.  A hallmark of his papacy has been a keen focus on the many challenges that families face today globally.  His charisma, presence and voice will electrify the gathering,”  Archbishop Chaput said.

It is expected that the Holy Father will visit Philadelphia Sept. 25 through 27 to participate in the closing events of the World Meeting of Families. The events include the Festival of Families, an intercultural celebration of family life around the world, which would be held on Saturday, Sept. 26, and a Papal Mass to be held on Sunday, Sept. 27.  Both of these events will take place on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and will be open to the public.

Final detailed plans for Pope Francis’ visit are expected to be released in spring or summer of 2015.

For more information regarding Pope Francis’ accompanying visit to Philadelphia visit World Meeting of Families.