The angel has landed

As Tuck and ourselves leaned forward in our seats, focussing our gaze at the TV screen, suddenly, there Papa Ratzi was in fluttering white cape and red shoes. It happened so fast that we missed the shoes, caught by professional EPA photographer Matthew Cavanaugh.

"A writer once said that angels can fly because they don't take themselves too seriously. Maybe we could also fly a bit if we didn't think we were so important," we recently quoted Pope Benedict XVI, who flew in to Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland this afternoon, right on schedule.

Screen shot as we watched, rapt, the pope who loves cats and Mozart welcomed by President Bush at Andrews Air Force Base this afternoon.

Some make history. Others make a mockery of it.

Screen shot as the Holy Father, the Leader of the Free World and Jenna and Barbara Bush strode joyously towards the terminal building. From there the pope would travel by limousine to the Vatican Embassy near the Vice President's residence.

"It was a thrilling moment, and I was deeply honored to be the first American face for him to see," US Chief of Protocol Nancy Brinker told a Fox News anchor:

We've been planning this in meticulous detail since early 2007.

Everyone is not only excited about this visit . . . but has deep emotional feelings about it.

He has a peaceful strength about him. I'm not a Catholic, but I really felt very, very touched when I met him. 

Shall we dance? (EPA/Matthew Cavanaugh photo)

"Both hold the same principles, I think," writes our imail correspondent, adding "Trust me, history will vindicate GW . . . if the world lasts that long.

Comments

[Jill]

What a great title! I was so happy when he landed and was here. I feel graced by his presence. I can't remember ever thinking that about a political figure. Well, once, when I saw JFK at Boston Garden the night before the '60 election.

The human desire to feel that I think is much of the Obama attraction, given that most of his supporters don't have any other faith.

I love what you said in the last post, the President acting humble before the Vicar of Christ. Power must bow to Goodness.

[John Ruberry]

Nice tribute.