Pope Francis visited the United States on September 22, 2015 in the late afternoon. Numerous priests and Catholic school students from all-around the United States had gathered near the landing strip to welcome the pope. Several citizens from nearby and faraway came to see the Pope make history with his visit to the United States of America.
Pope Francis’ visit to the United States makes him the fourth head of the Catholic Church to visit. Political figures such as Barack Obama and his family were part of the welcoming committee for Pope Francis.
On Wednesday, September 23, Obama planned another welcoming ceremony for Pope Francis. However, this time the ceremony was on the South Lawn of the White House. After the celebration, Pope Francis greeted other Americans in a parade in downtown Washington.
However, Thursday, September 24, happened to be the most critical day during the visit. The pope addressed the U.S. Congress, the first ever joint-address made by a pontiff. After addressing the U.S. Congress, Pope Francis shared a meal with homeless individuals.
Pope Francis devoted his message to the care of homeless individuals whom he believes have been overlooked by society. Pope Francis is not targeting democracy or freedom that rules within the United States; however, he is concerned that the U.S. use their wealth with special responsibility.
Pope Francis stated, “I appreciate the unfailing commitment of the Church in America to the cause of life and that of the family.” Pope Francis’s main message is respect the lives of those in need and do what you can to help.
Pope Francis’s message has been so powerful and respected that citizens long for a political leader similar to the Pope. Jake Tapper, an American journalist and anchor for CNN television series, “The Lead with Jake Tapper,” tweets, “Trying to think of an American politician whose views line up perfectly with that of @Pontifex [Pope Francis’s twitter].” Pope Francis departed from America on September 27, 2015. Pope Francis’s visit has provided inspiration for many citizens, as well as a new sense of belonging.
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