New York’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral prepares for arrival of Pope Francis

Mark Lombardi bows his head in prayer at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. “I’ve been coming here since I was a child. It’s amazing what they’ve done,” said Lombardi.

Tourists visit St. Patricks Cathedral in New York to take pictures before Pope Francis’ visit on Thursday. Felix Orellana, of Miami, right, says he came to St. Patricks Cathedral to pray and see the recent renovations. Orellana works for American Airlines and comes regularly to the cathedral, but won’t be in town to see Pope Francis.

Daniel Vicente sits and listens to the organ practice, which he does daily at St. Patricks Cathedral in New York. “I come here to be in contact with God,” said Vicente.

Lucia Popian prepares St. Patrick’s Cathedral in preparation for Pope Francis’ visit.

Tourists visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York and take pictures before Pope Francis’ visit on Thursday. Those who have been to St. Patrick’s before marvel at the renovations.

Souvenirs are for sale on the streets in Brooklyn, N.Y., ahead of Pope Francis’ arrival.

On 8th Ave. and 34th Street in Manhattan, a large mural is painted welcoming Pope Francis to New York. A homeless man rests on the steps of the U.S. post office. The man said he’s been homeless for two years. Disparity of income is among the points Pope Francis will address during his visit to the United States.