Many Catholic churches ring bells daily: the Angelus, wedding peals, funeral tolls, and mass calls. At noon on April 27, churches will also ring their bells to celebrate the canonization of Blessed Popes John Paul II and John XXIII.

The canonization of Blessed Popes John Paul II and John XXIII will be held on Sunday morning, April 27, 2014. Pope Francis will preside over a public Mass in St. Peter's Square during which he will canonize both Blessed Popes John Paul II and John XXIII.

At 12 noon (local time) on April 27, 2014, thousands of Catholic churches and people across the United States will join together to ring their bells to celebrate the canonization of Blessed Popes John Paul II and John XXIII. Every church is invited to take part.

WHEN: Ring a 3-minute (3 or 4 bell) celebration peal at 12 noon (local time) on April 27. If your church normally rings the Angelus, ring the celebration peal immediately after.

WHY: The sound of bells ringing out together across communities to mark this important time will be a memorable celebration for your parish and community.

Anyone can take part by ringing any kind of bell for three minutes -- from a carillon of bells to a digital carillon celebration peal to enthusiastic children with hand bells, bicycle bells and doorbells. The sound of thousands of bells across the country ringing out at the same time to mark this important time will be a thrilling experience and a memorable celebration among Catholics, parishes, and communities.