An LA congresswoman was part of the official congressional delegation in Rome attending the first mass of the first American pope.
LOS ANGELES, CA — Rep. Nanette Barragán, D-Los Angeles, is in Rome Sunday as part of the official congressional delegation attending the inaugural Mass for Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City.
The Mass is being celebrated at St. Peter’s Basilica.
The pope was chosen May 8 on the second day of a conclave of cardinals assembled to select a successor to Pope Francis, who died April 21 at age 88. Pope Leo XIV is the first American ever elected to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
“I’m honored to join this congressional delegation to witness a historic moment for the Catholic Church,” Barragán said in a statement. “As a Catholic and someone who represents a diverse district with a large Catholic population, it is especially meaningful to be at the Vatican for the inauguration of the first American Pope.
“This is a moment of pride, reflection, and hope for millions of people who look to the Church for guidance, compassion, and moral clarity. My prayers are with Pope Leo as he begins this monumental duty and spiritual journey.”
The congressional delegation is being led by Rep. French Hill, R- Arkansas. Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-California, is also part of the delegation.