In First, Pope to Address Congress

Pope Francis will address a joint meeting of Congress on Sept. 24, making him the first pontiff to do so. House Speaker John Boehner—who is a Catholic, points out Politico—made the announcement at a news conference today, then issued a statement that reads in part, "We’re humbled that the Holy Father has accepted our invitation and certainly look forward to receiving his message on behalf of the American people." The pope is scheduled to make his first papal visit to the United States this fall, with other stops in New York and Philadelphia. (More Pope Francis stories.)