As Catholics across the country prepare for the Pope's arrival to America, several Bakersfield residents are getting ready to travel to see him on the east coast. 

A local teacher from Garces Memorial High School is traveling to see the Pope and will attend his mass in Philadelphia. 

Susan Rizo is a theology teacher and a moderator for the social justice club at Garces High. 

Rizo is a part of the organization People Improving Communities through Organizing that works with local churches to help the marginalized. 

After attending a conference in April, Rizo received a call that she was invited back for another conference in Philadelphia where she will attend the Pope's mass and other activities throughout his historic visit to America. 

Rizo spoke exclusively to 23 ABC and says she is excited to be in the Pope's presence and thankful to have the opportunity to bring back the Pope's message to the Catholic community in Bakersfield. 

Rizo will travel on Thursday the 24th and return after attending the Pope's mass on Sunday.