[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 60 (Wednesday, April 16, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E635]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE VISIT OF POPE BENEDICT XVI

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                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 16, 2008

  Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the visit of the 
Holy Father, Pope Benedict the XVI, to the United States. In addition 
to commemorating this Pontiff's first visit to our Nation as the 
spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, today also marks the 
81st birthday for his Holiness. The theme for the Pope's U.S. visit is 
``On Christian Hope,'' and on behalf of the more than 200,000 Catholic 
residents of the Fifth Congressional District of Illinois, I would like 
to welcome Pope Benedict the XVI to Washington, DC and the United 
States.
  Pope Benedict the XVI was elected the 265th Pope in August of 2005. 
Since that time he has traveled to nations all over the world spreading 
the beliefs of hope, peace, and justice. Throughout his life the Holy 
Father has touched the hearts of millions. From his humble beginnings 
in Germany through his current role as leader of the Roman Catholic 
Church, his religious doctrine and his belief in faith, hope, and 
kindness have guided his commitment to the Church and people around the 
world. He has connected with Catholics and non-Catholics alike through 
his dedication for advancement of human rights for all people.
  The Holy Father has been honored throughout the world as a leader on 
issues that affect people of all races, religions, and creeds. He is an 
advocate for the poor and the needy, the hungry and the old, the sick 
and the tired. The belief that all citizens of the world should have 
rights is not simply a religious belief, but a human belief and one 
that we as Americans should honor.
  Roman Catholics make up over 20 percent of the United States 
population and over one-sixth of the worlds population. The Roman 
Catholic Church in the United States operates schools, universities, 
shelters, and hospitals to help and educate people of this great 
nation.
  Madam Speaker, the Holy Father is a dedicated servant to the Church 
and his followers, and we are proud to welcome him on his first visit 
to America. I wish him continued success in his efforts for human 
rights and spiritual advancement, as well as a very happy birthday.

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