ICC Note: Pope Francis’ visit to Washington D.C. saw over 11,000 in attendance for his Wednesday speech with President Obama. During the Pope’s speech, he challenged the American people to be “vigilant” toward defending religious freedom. Some have criticized the president and his administration for not doing more to relieve the plight of many religious minorities overseas. President Obama’s speech emphasized religious liberty as well, mentioning the current situation for many Christians abroad who face persecution daily. The Pope’s first visit to the United State did provide a suitable opportunity for both to discuss international religious freedom and what steps could be taken to offer support.
By Samuel Smith
09/25/2015 WASHINGTON (The Christian Post) — With over 11,000 ticketed guests gathered on the South Lawn, Pope Francis made his first-ever visit to the White House Wednesday morning, and called on the world to defend religious liberties and take better care of the environment before going to the Oval Office for a private meeting with President Barack Obama
The leader of the Catholic Church was welcomed to the White House by the president and first lady Michelle Obama. After the playing of the Holy See’s national anthem, the U.S. national anthem, and a short speech by Obama, the pope made his first direct address to the American people and challenged all Americans to be “vigilant” defenders of religious liberty.
