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"As we traveled by helicopter to JFK on Saturday morning at the end of Pope Francis’ 38 magnificent hours in New York, he asked our pilot to circle the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
As we did so, he became visibly moved by those two symbols of our city’s and our church’s proud record of welcoming immigrants.
He was impressed that yet another example of what he’s been preaching has already been put into practice here in New York.
Pope Francis came to us as something of a stranger. Of course, we knew him: He’s been called “the rock star pope” and for the past 2 ½ years he has been perhaps the most recognizable person on the planet.
But he didn’t really know us. His visit would be a chance for an up-close-and-personal encounter, so that this shepherd would get to know his flock, and his flock would get to know him.
I believe that was one of the pope’s primary objectives for this trip — to be closer to the people, his people, as any good priest and pastor would want to do."
- Cardinal Dolan, New York Post
Read more of Cardinal Dolan's Op-Ed in the New York Post
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"My biggest word of thanks, though, must go to all the people of New York. You endured street closures and traffic jams, long lines for Central Park and Madison Square Garden and other disruptions to your daily routines. And, rather than complain, you responded to Pope Francis with an outpouring of exuberant warmth and welcome."
- Cardinal Dolan
