President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will receive Pope Francis at the White House on September 23rd. The announcement was made today by White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest today.
“During the visit, the President and the Pope will continue the dialogue, which they began during the President’s visit to the Vatican in March 2014, on their shared values and commitments on a wide range of issues,” the statement from the Press Secretary read.
Among the issues expected to be discussed are care for the poor, the environment, protection of religious minorities, religious freedom and the plight of immigrants and refugees.
“The President looks forward to continuing this conversation with the Holy Father during his first visit to the United States as Pope,” the statement concluded.
The following day, September 24th, Pope Francis will address a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress. This is the first time in U.S. history that a Supreme Pontiff will address the Congress. On September 25th, the Pope will head to New York and address the General Assembly of the United Nations. He will conclude his visit in Philadelphia where he will attend the World Meeting of Families.
