Aderholt Statement on Pope Francis’ Address to Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today released the following statement in regard to Pope Francis' address to a Joint Session of Congress.

"It was certainly an honor to hear Pope Francis' historic address to Congress. Not only was it the first address to Congress from a Pope, the fact that he is both the leader of a state and the head of the largest Christian denomination in the world gives it added importance.

"For me, some of the highlights of his address that I was glad to see were his emphasis on the sanctity of human life at all stages of development, the importance of the traditional family and protecting religious freedoms around the world. Also, hearing the pope echo the words of Jesus as he spoke in the chamber were welcomed by Republicans and Democrats.

"As to the other, more political issues discussed, Washington already has its fair share of politics and could use more of the good news of the Gospel."

In Washington, Congressman Aderholt serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies for the powerful House Appropriations Committee; he is also a member of the Committee's Defense Subcommittee, the Committee's Commerce, Justice, and Science Subcommittee, and the Helsinki Commission.

For more information about Aderholt's work in Congress visit: www.aderholt.house.gov.