"I get chills thinking about it:" Pius XI High School students eagerly await trip to see the Pope

MILWAUKEE -- First Cuba, then the United States -- it's the Pope's first trip to North America. A group of local students are counting down the days until they can see him for themselves.

During a special mass at Pius XI High School, parishioners pray that the journey of Pope Francis be one of deeper spirituality for everyone.

And as the Holy Father makes his way to the United States, prayers were said for a safe pilgrimage for those going to see him.

"I get chills thinking about it," said Anne Haines, Pius XI High School.

Haines, Director of Faith Formation, teamed up with Messmer and Catholic Memorial for a trip to Philadelphia to see the pontiff.

"What I think is really going to resonate with everyone is the excitement of being there with 2-3 million Catholics, all who are so totally in love with this man who captures the attention of the world, so it's going to be transformative," said said Haines.

Haines believes it will help the students evangelize others.

"We think it will prove a strong foundation in their faith and help them to spread the news here back at school what it was like to see this amazing man," said Haines.

"He is the right pope at the right time," said Danny Bunzel, Pius XI High School.

Senior Danny Bunzel has been anticipating the trip.

"I'm very excited. It means a lot that he is spreading love and peace," said Bunzel.

Sophomore Brianna White, and her classmates prepare to hear his message packing up care packages and travel bags for the group to take along -- eager to see the pope deliver Sunday mass.

"This is going to be life changing because I don't think I'm ever going to experience anything like that again," said White.

More than three dozen students will embark on their journey to Philadelphia on Thursday, September 24th. They will be bridging schools, building relationships and praying for peace. Which they feel represents what Pope Francis is all about.