Pope Francis’s first US visit was highly anticipated and virtually every step was televised. As the leader of a billion Catholics worldwide and a moral authority, his words carry enormous influence. The pontiff had an opportunity to deliver a speech to a joint session of Congress during his visit. He spoke on many politically divisive topics, one of which was immigration.

The pope’s remarks on immigration resonated with the immigrant beginnings and roots of the United States, touching on themes of hope and freedom. His perspective on immigration emanates from a place of empathy and humanity, exhorting lawmakers and the public to allocate resources to assisting many of the migrants who have escaped brutal poverty, violence, and gang warfare in Central America.

Congress has its hands full this week on immigration and various policy matters, one of which is continuing the government’s operations and avoiding a government shutdown. A continuing resolution has been proposed while a longer-term solution can be worked out. There are four immigration programs that are set to expire this week.

Watch the Pope’s speech here.