Hours of operation for several LGBT organizations in Philadelphia will be affected by Pope Francis’ visit next weekend.
The pope will attend a World Meeting of Families event Sept. 26 and deliver Mass Sept. 27 on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Traffic restrictions are expected to take effect Sept. 25.
Philadelphia FIGHT will be closed Sept. 25. It will reopen at noon Sept. 28, but appointments will not be scheduled that day in case of residual traffic or delays on regional transportation.
All Mazzoni Center locations will be closed Sept. 25 through 28. Appointments and walk-in HIV testing resumes at 9 a.m. Sept. 29.
GALAEI will be closed Sept. 24 and 25. It expects to resume normal hours on Sept. 28.
The Attic Youth Center will have some changes to its hours, but exact details are still being worked out.
The William Way LGBT Community Center will be open for its normal hours.
“This is a historic moment for Philadelphia,” said Chris Bartlett, executive director of William Way. “Since so many places are shutting down, it’s important for us to stay open for LGBT Catholics and Catholic allies who want a place to relax while enjoying the pope’s visit.”
Events at William Way include the Solidarity Days of Queer Family Blessings Across the World, a free event that will be performed by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence from San Francisco at 1 p.m. Sept. 26.
A relaxation room will be open from noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 25 and 26 for anyone to rest and charge their phones and computers.
“Cabaret Vérité III: Our Family Meeting” will close the weekend at 8 p.m. Sept. 26. Composer Tom Wilson Weinberg orchestrated the cabaret to showcase inclusive family joys and drama. Tickets cost $18 in advance or $25 cash at the door. Proceeds benefit William Way.
For tickets, visit www.cabaretverite.brownpapertickets.com.