Press Release
Posted:
Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) led 91 members of Congress in a letter urging Speaker Johnson, and Leader Jeffries to invite His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to address a Joint Session of Congress during the beginning of the 120th Congress in 2027. This would represent the second time ever that a Pope has spoken to Congress, after Pope Francis addressed Congress in a joint session in 2015.
“The election of Pope Leo XIV serves as a sign of great pride for millions of Americans. As the first ever American-born Pope, his unique perspective, and ties to our country, would serve as a unifying force for members of Congress. Following a divisive election, Pope Leo’s unifying message of service, compassion for fellow mankind, and the importance of human dignity would be especially timely,” wrote the lawmakers.
"Pope Leo XIV is arguably the strongest moral voice in our world for the promotion of human dignity, peace and the common good. As the first American to be elected pope, he already holds a unique place in the history of our nation. A joint address to Congress from the Holy Father would not only offer a precious opportunity to hear to his wisdom but could also serve as a joyous celebration of the United States and its tradition of religious freedom,” said Father Chris Kellerman, Societas Iesu, Secretary of Justice and Ecology of the Jesuit Conference.
“NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice and our members from across the United States enthusiastically support this important bipartisan effort to invite Pope Leo to address Members of Congress in the 120th Session. Pope Leo's urgent and universal call for peace, for greater love, and for solidarity that recognizes and champions the dignity of every person, no exceptions, is urgently needed. Our prayer is that his visit inspires lawmakers, Catholics, and all people of good will to work together to create laws that protect our shared humanity and the common good," said Laurie Carafone, Executive Director, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice.
Read the full text of the letter HERE and below.
The Honorable Mike Johnson The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries
Speaker of the House Minority Leader
H-232, The Capitol H-204, The Capitol
Washington, DC 20515 Washington, DC 20515
Dear Speaker Johnson and Minority Leader Jeffries:
We respectfully request that you extend a formal invitation to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to address a Joint Session of Congress during the beginning of the 120th Congress.
The election of Pope Leo XIV serves as a sign of great pride for millions of Americans. As the first ever American-born Pope, his unique perspective, and ties to our country, would serve as a unifying force for members of Congress. Following a divisive election, Pope Leo’s unifying message of service, compassion for fellow mankind, and the importance of human dignity would be especially timely.
His visit would offer a much-needed outlook as we navigate complex foreign and domestic issues. Given the undeniable historical significance and cultural impact of Pope Francis’s address to Congress in 2015, we urge you to work to schedule a joint address as soon as possible in the beginning of the 120th Congress with the first American-born Pope.
Thank you for considering this request.