President Barack Obama gave Pope Francis a box of seeds as a gift, a fitting token as their first-ever meeting provided a fresh start of sorts between the administration and Catholic leadership after years of strained relations.
"These, I think, are carrots," Obama told the Pontiff, showing him a pouch from the box, which was made from timber from the first cathedral to open in the United States, in Baltimore.
The Pope gave the President two medallions -- one symbolizing the need for peace and solidarity between the two hemispheres -- and a copy of "Evangelii Gaudium," or "The Joy of the Gospel." The book was penned by the Pope and calls for a new era of evangelization and a renewed focus on the poor.
◼ As Obama meets the pope, Francis´ smile masks a serious message - Doyle McManus/Los Angeles Times
◼ Obama Invites Pope Francis to Visit the US - Mary Bruce/ABC
◼ Obama hears Vatican´s concerns over health care, invites Pope to U.S. - Philip Pullella & Jeff Mason/Reuters
◼ ‘LOL!’ Sen. Rand Paul cracks Obama, Pope Francis joke; Is this what Obama said? - TWITCHY
. @BarackObama to @Pontifex: Forgive me father for I have spied. #NSA
— Senator Rand Paul (@SenRandPaul) March 27, 2014
