President Obama Meets Pope Francis

BuzzFeed - Immigration, religious freedom exemptions, Syria, and Ukraine were discussed. “I’m a great admirer,” Obama says. Kevin Lamarque / Reuters VATICAN CITY — President Barack Obama and Pope Francis met for the first time on Thursday for a private discussion that touched on international conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, as well as U.S. domestic issues, including the concept of religious freedom and immigration policy. After a ceremonial procession through the Apostolic Palace, led by Swiss Guards and attendants known as the Papal Gentlemen, President Obama enthusiastically greeted the leader of the Catholic Church. "It is a great honor," he said, bowing as he shook hands with Pope Francis. "I'm a great admirer. Thank you so much for receiving me." The pope and the president continued to exchange greetings as they walked into the papal library with two interpreters (the pope speaks English, but not fluently). After a brief photo-op, press and staff were escorted