Pope Francis Arrives In New York
By David Spunt
NEW YORK (CBS) -- Pope Francis arrived in New York Thursday after a historic trip to our nation's capital.
After addressing Congress, the Pope ended the day with 2,500 at the historic and newly renovated St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Pope Francis was all smiles when he landed at the airport in New York Thursday evening, after a two day trip to Washington. He met with children from around the city. Little Julia Buzzese was one of them.
"It was the most precious moment of my life," said Buzzese.
The Holy Father then boarded a helicopter and landed in Manhattan. Thousands packed Fifth Avenue to get a close look of the Pope on his way to St. Patrick's Cathedral. The 78-year-old greeted Governor Andrew Cuomo and others before heading inside for Vespers, Evening Prayer.
After the service, Gov. Cuomo told Eyewitness News that Philadelphia is in for a treat this weekend.
"With all the expectations the reality was even better. There is an energy that comes off this man where you know you are in presence of greatness," said Gov. Cuomo.
Others waited for hours and were special guests who stood on the cathedral steps.
"I'm Jewish and my husband is Catholic so it was different for me to be there but it was very inspirational," said Felene Cattell.
Pope Francis is a man of simplicity and he didn't disappoint. He left in the papal Fiat before heading to an Archdiocese residence. He has a busy day Friday and his followers can't wait to see what's in store.
"For a guy in his seventies I would love to have his energy when I get there one day so I hope he gets a good night rest tonight."
The pope has said before he gets up at 4 a.m., no alarm clock. He has a busy day. He'll address the United Nations General Assembly before heading to the 9/11 Memorial, a school in Harlem and mass at Madison Square Garden.