THE POPE'S ADDRESS

The Pope spoke eloquently and knowledgeably
about American history and culture.
He drew attention to the two-hundredth anniversary
of the elevation of the first Roman Catholic Diocese in America, that of Baltimore, to an archdiocese,
and the establishment of the dioceses of New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Lousiville.

The Pope said, "From the dawn of the Republic, America's quest for freedom has been guided by the conviction that the principles governing political and social life are intimately linked to a moral order based on the dominion of God the Creator. "

Both the Pope and the President had quoted from the Declaration of Independence: that "all men are created equal . .  and are endowed by their creator with certain
unalienable rights."

Following his speech, The President escorted the Holy Father from the podium to the balcony outside the Oval Office.

The Pope gave his usual gesture of greeting and joy,
reaching out with both arms as if to embrace
all the people.

While standing together with Mr. Bush and Laura,
the Army Chorus gathered on the lawn
and sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic
in a very moving - and given the moment -
spiritually significant rendition.

Then, with the chorus and led my Miss Battle,
the whole assembly once again sang
"Happy birthday Holy Father,
Happy birthday to you."

With that, the Bushes and the Holy Father left
public view and went inside the White House.