This paper will discuss how the City of Philadelphia and surrounding counties prepared for the recent 2015 Papal Visit. The focus of the presentation will be on how a proactive, strategic approach was utilized to prepare for the many emergency management challenges associated with one of the largest events ever held in the region. The successful outcome in managing this major event was achieved through a coordinated, collaborative effort of numerous local governmental entities and agencies, along with county governments from three states, and the federal government. Numerous business and non-profit organizations also played instrumental roles in planning for this event, as well as in implementing these plans. This case study illustrates the application of various business topics including strategic planning, contingency planning, management, and information technology. The presentation will examine how this important event was managed effectively, efficiently, and safely, through the use of proven management principles and practices supported by the extensive use of information technology.