Pope at White House: Act Now on Climate

Pope Francis opened his address at the White House by saying that “as the son of an immigrant family, I am happy to be a guest in this country, which was largely built by such families.” Francis said he looks forward to addressing Congress and that Catholics are “committed to building a society which is truly tolerant and inclusive... and to reject every form of injustice and discrimination.” The pontiff praised President Obama for his carbon-emission reduction plan, saying, “I find it encouraging that you are proposing an initiative for reducing air pollution...It seems to be that climate change is a problem that can no longer be left to our future generations.” An estimated 15,000 people greeted Francis on the South Lawn.