The 78-year-old pontiff delivered a message that America's power and wealth should be used to serve humanity during his speech to the Republican-led Congress in Washington. He emphasized the importance of not turning away from "the stranger in our midst" and called for a more equitable economy to help those trapped in poverty. Additionally, he advocated for an end to the death penalty worldwide and a greater effort against climate change. The pope, who was born in Argentina to an Italian immigrant family, also addressed conservative values and Catholic teachings on the family during his wide-ranging speech. With the accompaniment of organ music and a choir, the pope was warmly received by a crowd of 3,000 people at a cathedral for an evening prayer service. Francis is scheduled to speak at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday and to lead an open-air Mass in Philadelphia on Sunday. During his address to the U.S. Congress, the pope's call for more compassionate immigration policies was met with applause from both Democrats and Republicans. The issue of immigration, particularly regarding illegal immigrants, has been a key focus in the upcoming presidential election, with Republican candidate Donald Trump proposing the deportation of all 11 million illegal immigrants, many of whom are from Latin America like the pope. Trump has also made controversial statements accusing Mexico of sending criminals across the border. Francis, addressing a problem that has caused the Republicans to lose support among Hispanic voters, emphasized that America should not be bothered by the influx of foreigners from south of the border who are seeking a better life. He encouraged people to see them as individuals, listen to their stories, and respond compassionately, justly, and fraternally to their situation. During his speech, Francis was accompanied by two prominent American Catholics: Republican House Speaker John Boehner and Democratic Vice President Joe Biden. Boehner, known to get emotional, openly wept during the speech while Francis spoke softly with a heavy accent. The United States has struggled with how to handle illegal immigrants for many years. Last year, Republicans in Congress stopped a bipartisan attempt to change immigration laws that would have given illegal immigrants a chance to become US citizens. In a Pew Research Center survey in May, 51 percent of 2,002 American adults believed that immigrants strengthen the country with their hard work and talents, while 41 percent thought they are a burden because they take jobs, housing, and healthcare. It remains uncertain whether the pope's speech will alter people's views on immigration. "It doesn't change my opinion," stated Michael Tipsword, a student at George Washington University and a Catholic. Tipsword stated that Francis' views on immigration are more about humanitarian concerns rather than political motivations. He described himself as a staunch conservative while watching the speech on a large screen in front of the US Capitol building, where many others were also gathered. Francis referenced historical American figures like Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr., urging lawmakers to prioritize unity and the common good over bitter partisan disputes. Presidential candidates on both sides of the spectrum used the pope's words to support their own agendas, with Francis also highlighting the importance of protecting human life at all stages of development, including issues like abortion and euthanasia. He quickly shifted his focus to opposing the death penalty, emphasizing the value of every life and the potential for rehabilitation of criminals. He also condemned the global arms trade, fueled by blood money, and criticized the silence surrounding it. Addressing conservatives, he expressed disapproval of same-sex marriage and highlighted the importance of traditional family values. To demonstrate his commitment to helping the poor, Francis left the US Capitol in a humble black Fiat to have lunch with homeless individuals, stressing that there is no excuse for homelessness.