Biden Leads U.S. Delegation to Pope Francis’ Installation

Vice President Biden leads the U.S. delegation to Pope Francis' installation mass. Biden says the Catholic Church plays a role "not just in matters of our faith, but in pursuit of peace and human dignity for all faiths."

Vice President Biden represented the United States at the mass for the installation of Pope Francis, heading a delegation that included New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez, House of Representatives Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and Georgetown University President John DeGioia.

Biden, the first Roman Catholic to serve as vice president, said he welcomed the chance to personally convey his best wishes and those of the American people at the start of the new pope’s tenure.

“The Catholic Church plays an essential role in my life and the lives of more than a billion people in America and around the world, not just in matters of our faith, but in pursuit of peace and human dignity for all faiths,” he said.

President Obama said the selection of the Argentine-born Pope Francis “speaks to the strength and vitality” of the Latin American region, which is “increasingly shaping our world.”

“As a champion of the poor and the most vulnerable among us, he carries forth the message of love and compassion that has inspired the world for more than 2,000 years — that in each other we see the face of God,” the president said.