Pope Francis will address a joint session of Congress on Sept. 24, House Speaker John Boehner said Thursday.
Francis will become the first leader of the Holy See to address a combined session of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
‘In a time of global upheaval, the Holy Father’s message of compassion and human dignity has moved people of all faiths and backgrounds,’ Boehner said in a statement. ‘His teachings, prayers, and very example bring us back to the blessings of simple things and our obligations to one another.’
Boehner’s invitation to Francis was warmly received on Capitol Hill Thursday.
‘We are eager to welcome His Holiness to the U.S. Capitol and we look forward to hearing his call to live our values, to protect the poor and the needy and to promote peace,’ said House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said ‘the American people look forward to hearing Pope Francis’ call to love our neighbors and to find new and creative ways to meet the pressing needs of those who exist on the fringes of society.’
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