Pope Francis has arrived at Andrews Air Force Base from Cuba aboard Shepherd One to begin his six-day visit to the country. The Bishop of Rome will spend the next three days in Washington, D.C., before departing for New York City and Philadelphia.
BREAKING: Pope Francis lands in US to begin six-day, three-city visit.
— The Associated Press (@AP) September 22, 2015
WE HAVE POPEDOWN #blessed pic.twitter.com/q5pwGCK4BG
— Ellie Hall (@ellievhall) September 22, 2015
Landemus Papem. https://t.co/Y2JGEzlnCj
— RB (@RBPundit) September 22, 2015
Upon landing, Pope Francis removed his zucchetto as it was fairly windy outside. He was greeted by the First Family and a chanting crowd.
The Pontiff has a jam-packed schedule during his time in the United States. Tomorrow, he will meet with President Obama at the White House for an official state welcome, and later that day he will canonize Bl. Junipero Serra in a Mass celebrated at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Thursday, His Holiness will address a joint session of Congress (a first), before meeting with Catholic Charities and departing for New York City.
In New York City, the Vicar of Christ will address the United Nations and celebrate Mass at Madison Square Garden before moving on to Philadelphia on Saturday morning. There, he will celebrate Mass and conclude the World Meeting of Families.
Welcome, Pope Francis!