Vatican Spokesman: Pope Francis Considering Possible Stop in Cuba During US Trip

"The Holy Father has taken into consideration the idea of making a stop in Cuba on the occasion of his upcoming Trip to the United States." These were the words of Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Holy Press Office.

However, Fr. Lombardi also said that plans are still in "too early a phase for it to be possible to regard this stop as a firm decision and an operative plan."

The Holy Father will make his first Apostolic Visit to the United States from September 22-27 to participate in the VII World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia.

The White House confirmed last month that the Pope will meet with President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama at the presidential residence on September 23rd. He will then make history as the first Supreme Pontiff to address a joint session of Congress the following day.

The Jesuit Pope will then make his way to New York City on September 25thwhere he will address the United Nations General Assembly. Finally, he will make his way to Philadelphia before returning to Rome.

News of Pope Francis' possible stop in Cuba was revealed by the Wall Street Journals' Francis X. Rocca, who said the trip would provide support to both countries as they work on reestablishing diplomatic ties.