Pope Calls on Congress to Confront 'Every Form of Polarization'

By RYAN SARTOR (Patch National Staff)

During his speech to Congress on Thursday, Pope Francis described the world as a place of “violent conflict.”

The pontiff went on to talk about the “open wounds” that demand we confront “every form of polarization.” Behind Pope Francis in their usual seats, Vice President Joe Biden nodded along as House Speaker John Boehner spread one hand across his face, pulling fingers down toward his nose and mouth.

Pope Francis did not comment on any specific policy issues, but went on to say, “Our response must instead be one of hope and healing. Of peace and justice. We ask to summon the courage and intelligence to resolve today’s many geopolitical and economic crises.”

“We must move forward together as one,” Pope Francis said, “in that renewed spirit of fraternity and solidarity, cooperating generously for the common good.”

The most immediate government crisis involves a potential shutdown on Oct. 1. Many Republicans in Congress are calling for the defunding of Planned Parenthood. Republican Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said that defunding Planned Parenthood is an “an exercise of futility,” noting that it’s “not going to happen,” Politico reports.