The Pope In DC: Congress’ Reaction to the Challenge

By Jeffrey Bruno from New York City, United States [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
By Jeffrey Bruno from New York City, United States [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Pope stresses the importance of the U.S. in fighting climate change and creating a society that is inclusive and tolerant.

As part of his visit to the U.S., the Pope, on Wednesday, addressed Congress and American Citizens on the White House South Lawn. He stressed on the need for the U.S. to get involved in fighting the issue of climate change and global warming. He also emphasized on the need for Americans to create a society that was both inclusive and tolerant.

In his speech, the Pope appreciated the efforts taken by President Obama to curb the menace of air pollution. President Obama had taken up the responsibility of addressing the issue of air pollution just months after receiving an encyclical letter from the Pope

The Pope stated that climate change was one of his top priorities and that it was a concern that could not wait. He added that climate control shouldn’t be a task left for future generations and that we were living in a critical period.

Aside from focusing on environmental issues in his speech, the Pope also shared his views and suggestions on issues such as immigration, religious freedom, and inequality. He also covered the issue of prevailing racial tensions in the country and also quoted Martin Luther King to get his point across to the crowd.

Around 15,000 people were believed to have gathered at the White House South Lawns for the Pope’s address.

Pope Francis has been known for his vocal criticism of capitalism and the damaged caused by it to the poorer sections of society and also, to the environment. He is strongly supported by President Obama as far as environmental damage is concerned.

After the Pope’s address, President Obama responded saying the following prayer:

Holy Father, today we are reminded that we have an obligation to protect this planet, which is God's gift to the mankind. We support your call to all world leaders to support the communities most vulnerable to a changing climate and to come together to preserve our precious world for future generations.

After the end of the address, both leaders headed into the White House for further discussions. Though, President Obama and Pope Francis share the same views on environmental damage and poverty, they differ on the topics of same-sex marriage and abortion.

The Pope’s visit to Washington saw its fair share of people. Adoring followers thronged the streets cheering the Pontiff and greeting him.

The Pope In DC -Congress Reaction to the Challenge.[/tweetthis]

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