WASHINGTON — The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is preparing for Pope Francis’ visit by stocking its gift shop with special papal merchandise.
The shrine is selling photos, T-shirts, coffee mugs and even a miniature popemobile, among other things.
“It’s been a pleasure and a joy to be creating things that are going to commemorate Pope Francis’ visit to the U.S. and particularly to the shrine,” says Amy Maloney, director of retail at the national shrine shops.
“We know that everyone loves to see Pope Francis’ smiling face,” Maloney says.
The pope will hold a canonization mass at the shine on Sept. 23.
