A bipartisan group of lawmakers sent a letter to Republican and Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives encouraging them to formally invite Pope Leo XIV to address a joint session of Congress next year.
The letter — addressed to House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-Louisiana, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-New York — was signed by 91 Republican and Democratic members of Congress.
"The election of Pope Leo XIV serves as a sign of great pride for millions of Americans," the letter said. "As the first ever American-born Pope, his unique perspective, and ties to our country, would serve as a unifying force for members of Congress."
"Following a divisive election, Pope Leo's unifying message of service, compassion for fellow mankind, and the importance of human dignity would be especially timely," the letter added.
The lawmakers wrote that a visit from the Holy Father "would offer a much-needed outlook as we navigate complex foreign and domestic issues."
"Given the undeniable historical significance and cultural impact of Pope Francis's address to Congress in 2015, we urge you to work to schedule a joint address as soon as possible in the beginning of the 120th Congress with the first American-born Pope," the letter added.
Neither Johnson's nor Jeffries' offices immediately responded to EWTN News' request for comment.
A decision to invite a pope to address Congress has come from congressional leadership in the past, often together with the executive branch, according to the Congressional Research Service (CRS). "No formal procedure on when or how to issue invitations is codified in law or in House or Senate rules," according to CRS.
'Looking at the calendar'
The Chicago-born pontiff does not have a visit to the United States on his schedule yet but did say in June that he intends to travel to the country soon: "We were looking at the calendar for the next couple of years. Nothing is set in stone yet, but I certainly hope to be there soon."
In July, Leo honored the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by penning a letter that said that moment "gave enduring voice to the ideals of liberty, equality, the pursuit of happiness, justice, and democratic self-government." He also accepted the National Constitution Center's 2026 Liberty Medal.
Leo is visiting South America until Nov. 17. His first stop was Uruguay and he is in Argentina until Nov. 11. The final stop for this trip will be Peru, where the Holy Father spent more than 20 years of his adult life.
Pope Francis visited the United States in 2015, as did Pope Benedict XVI in 2008. St. John Paul II visited the country seven times during his long 26-year papacy.
