WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pope Francis arrived in the nation’s capital on Thursday, holding a ceremony at the White House with President Obama.
Francis’ historic first papal visit to the United States was anticipated by thousands, some praying and some running to watch as a parade got underway.
Francis’ message is “love is our mission”, as Thursday he’ll become the first pontiff to address United States Congress.
After Francis leaves the Capitol, he’ll still have a busy schedule. He’ll travel to New York on Friday, visiting the United Nations, Ground Zero and saying mass at Madison Square Garden.
In Philadelphia on Saturday, he’ll visit Independence Mall and say another mass at The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. He’ll finally return to the Vatican on Sunday night.