Pope Francis' Congress Address Transformed Political Landscape

Pope Francis, who emerged as an unexpected choice from Latin America in 2013, was elected in part due to his advocacy for a Church focused on reaching the marginalized and addressing global needs, as highlighted in his pre-conclave speech. His papacy was marked by a commitment to humility, service to the poor, and outreach to the peripheries, drawing inspiration from Saint Francis of Assisi. Francis became the first pope to address a Joint Meeting of the U.S. Congress in 2015, where he urged lawmakers to uphold the dignity of all and invoked the Golden Rule. His message and actions, such as washing the feet of prisoners even while ailing, underscored his dedication to social justice and compassion. These qualities also contributed to the Vatican’s growing global appeal, particularly in Africa and South Asia, and were reflected in the diversity and vibrancy of the Catholic Church in America. The choreography and emotional impact of his visit to Washington, D.C., left a lasting impression on both lawmakers and the faithful.