US News

Boehner invites Pope Francis to address Congress

WASHINGTON — House Speaker John Boehner issued a formal invitation Thursday for Pope Francis to address a joint session of Congress.

Francis would be the first pope to appear on Capitol Hill if he accepts the offer made on behalf of both parties.

Boehner’s staff said the Vatican hasn’t signaled the pope will accept — but the speaker wanted get on his itinerary if he comes to the United States in 2015.

Media reports have said the popular pope will attend a Catholic conference in Philadelphia in April 2015.