Pope visit 1987

The scene at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum before Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass there on Sept. 15, 1987.

(Patrick Downs / Los Angeles Times)

Sept. 11, 2015 1:58 PM PT

Two women wearing newspaper hats mimicking miters await Pope John Paul II’s arrival along Main Street in Los Angeles on Sep. 15, 1987.

(Steve Dykes / Los Angeles Times)

Josephina Hernandez and Maria James from Mexico stand on a barrel as they hope for a glimpse of Pope John Paul II outside the San Fernando Mission.

(Joe Vitti / Los Angeles Times)

Pope John Paul II mingles with the crowd at the Universal Amphitheater.

(Anacleto Rapping / Los Angeles Times)

Pope John Paul II prays at St. Vibiana’s Cathedral in downtown Los Angeles. In the background is then-Los Angeles Archbishop Roger M. Mahony.

(Michael Edwards / Los Angeles Times)

Pope John Paul II greets followers after leading Mass at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

(Steve Fontanini / Los Angeles Times)

Franciscan sisters from San Fernando wait for Pope John Paul II at 1st and Main Streets in Los Angeles.

(Steve Dykes / Los Angeles Times)