I am so glad I stopped working long enough to watch the Holy Father's speech at the White House. It was like a mini-retreat. The ceremony itself was very classy. I can't imagine that many liberals were happy as the Army Chorus sang "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." I do imagine that many Catholics were thrilled to see the Vatican flag(s) flying over the White House, and being waved by a great many people in the audience.
My favorite part of all of it was when the crowd sang "Happy Birthday" to the Pope. It was very inspiring to hear 10,000 voices singing "Happy birthday Holy Father." Even if they only did it because "Happy birthday Dear Pope" would have sounded bad.
I will post anything I find on YouTube later for those who missed it.
The main thing that struck me about Pope Benedict's speech was that he clearly understands America and Americans, and appreciates our good (and unique) qualities.
All in all, it was not a good morning for the America haters who were eager for the Holy Father to arrive and start bashing the country and boxing the ears of George Bush. As Fr. Morris (I think it was Fr. Morris) said on Fox News after the ceremony ended, "The Pope could have written George Bush's speech."
The commentators mentioned, over and over, that it is a gloriously beautiful day in Washington today. Sure looks that way from here.
(Great photos here)
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