Energy and Climate Debate -

Congressional activities are abbreviated this week, with the observance of Yom Kippur and Pope Francis’ visit to the United States. Pope Francis will address a joint session of Congress Thursday morning, and is likely to deliver a strong climate message; arriving on Tuesday, the pontiff will also meet with President Obama this week. The following day, the White House will host a state dinner on behalf of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Presidents Obama and Jinping and their respective officials have been meeting ahead of the official visit to discuss items of interest and concern between the two countries, including cybersecurity and climate change.

September 21-25 has been named a Week of Moral Action on Climate to honor Pope Francis’ visit. The Franciscan Action Network and the Chesapeake Climate Action Network delivered 166 copies of Laudato Si and a letter supporting Representative Chris Van Hollen’s (D-MD) Healthy Climate and Family Security Act (H.R. 1027).