Rep. Moolenaar's Statement on Pope Francis's Address to Congress

Today, Pope Francis addressed a joint session of Congress. The much-anticipated speech drew enthusiastic attendees to the West Lawn of the Capitol where they were able to view it on large screens put up specifically for the event.

Representative John Moolenaar (R-Midland) sat in the House chamber to hear the Pope's speech and released the following statement:

"As he addressed Congress, the Pope faced a depiction of Moses, the first lawgiver, and called on us to protect the likeness fashioned by God on every face. He spoke of the richness of family life and the importance of providing hope and opportunity for our children and future generations. He recognized the nobility of business and the positive role it plays in creating prosperity for all.

Most importantly, he called on us to remember the Golden Rule and our ‘responsibility to protect and defend human life at every stage of its development.'

It was an honor to represent the hardworking residents of Michigan's Fourth Congressional District in attending the first papal address to Congress. The Catholic Church and its charities do tremendous work to improve the wellbeing of all people and I hope that Pope Francis's historic speech reminds all of us about the indispensable role of faith and religious liberty in our nation."