The most predictable Washington ritual is the president’s State of the Union address. This civic liturgy includes an entrance procession of the Senate, Cabinet and Supreme Court followed by the president, who declares the union “strong” and offers his policies to make it stronger. Members of the president’s party repeatedly stand and applaud and the other party offers disapproving silence from their seats. The ritualistic political theater includes the presence of symbolic citizens chosen for their moving stories, which reinforce poll-tested messages.
The next time Vice President Biden and Speaker Boehner preside together, the occasion won’t be so predictable. John Boehner and Nancy Pelosi, very different Catholics, have invited Pope Francis to address Congress in September. Only five decades ago, some American leaders declared a Catholic should not become president because he would take orders from the pope. Now Jorge Bergolio of Argentina has been invited to offer guidance to American legislators because of his leadership as Pope Francis.
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