Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-51) issued the following statement after Speaker John Boehner announced that His Holiness, Pope Francis, accepted an invitation to address a Joint Meeting of Congress. The Pope’s visit on September 24, 2015 will mark a historic moment, as he will be the first Pontiff to address the U.S. Congress.

“It’s truly a blessing that Pope Francis has accepted our invitation to address a Joint Meeting of Congress during his visit to the United States. The Holy Father's message of compassion and human dignity will be very inspirational for our chamber. As a former Jesuit and current legislator, I am proud and honored that we will receive such a humbling visit. I am very eager to hear his vision of hope as we move to foster a better world through mutual understanding and peace.”