Washington, DC – Today Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) welcomed Catholic leaders from Spokane to the Capitol for the visit of Pope Francis. Following the visit, Rob McCann and Father Jose joined McMorris Rodgers to reflect on the Pope’s message.

“The Pope’s message inspired me today—especially his encouragement to focus on creating opportunity for the next generation because that notion embodies the American spirit,” McMorris Rodgers said. “His message challenges us to carry on the spirit of many who went before us—defending liberty, protecting life, striving for justice, and caring for the oppressed.”

“It’s a blessing to be part of the excitement of the city and the people,” Father Jose said. “It’s great to see how the Pope is showing us, with examples of Americans throughout history, the way to follow the American dream.”

“You didn’t have to be Catholic to hear these words today,” McCann said. “In terms of treating people with dignity and respect, compassion and justice, these are not Catholic words, these are human words, these are Eastern Washington words—and they resonate with all of us.”

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Rob McCann, Executive Director of Catholic Charities Spokane, joined the Congresswoman as her guest for His Holiness Pope Francis’ address to a joint session of Congress. Father Jose will give the welcome and invocation at a special event for guests of Members of Congress in the Cannon Caucus Room.

This program was hosted by McMorris Rodgers, chair of the House Republican Conference, with her colleague Congressman Xavier Becerra, chair of the House Democratic Caucus. It featured a full simulcast of the Pope’s address.

Rev. Jose Luis Millán is the pastor of St. Antony’s parish in Spokane, WA. From a very small town in Mexico, Father Jose also serves as pastor of Trinity Catholic School in Spokane and previously served as pastor of the Sacred Heart parish in Pullman, WA.