Pope Benedict XVI Blog

Pope Benedict XVI begins first U.S. tour

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Pope Benedict XVI arrived in the United States Tuesday afternoon to start the six-day, two-city journey that will take him from the White House to the halls of the United Nations.



His papal plane, Shepherd 1, touched down at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland.

Benedict will receive a private greeting from President Bush and first lady Laura Bush.

This is the first U.S. papal visit since the attacks of September 11, 2001, and Benedict's first visit to the United States.

There will be a welcoming ceremony for the pope on the South Lawn of the White House Wednesday. Benedict is to speak before meeting later in the day with U.S. cardinals and bishops.
Meanwhile, security preparations were under way in the air, on land and in the water.

Twenty-seven state, local and federal agencies will protect the pope as he meets with religious leaders, celebrates Mass at a baseball stadium and makes his way around the capital in his distinctive "popemobile."
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posted by Dr. Denice Hanley, DPM, M.Div. @ 4:50 PM