Pope Francis. AP FILE PHOTO
WASHINGTON鈥擯ope Francis could become the first Pontiff ever to address the US Congress after being offered a historic invitation by House leaders.
Speaker John Boehner sent a formal invitation to the Pontiff, who on Thursday marked the first anniversary of his election to the papacy.
The Vatican has yet to respond to the invite.
Boehner in a statement lauded Francis鈥� popular message of mercy and serving the poor and how it transcended religious and cultural differences.
鈥淧ope Francis has inspired millions of Americans with his pastoral manner and servant leadership, challenging all people to lead lives of mercy, forgiveness, solidarity and humble service,鈥� Boehner said.
鈥淗is tireless call for the protection of the most vulnerable among us鈥攖he ailing, the disadvantaged, the unemployed, the impoverished, the unborn鈥攈as awakened hearts on every continent.鈥�
Reports have said the Pope hopes to visit the United States next year to attend a global conference on families in Philadelphia in September.
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