Pope Francis Praises Obama's Action on Climate Change, Stresses 'Urgency' of Issue

Pope Francis praised U.S. President Barack Obama's action on climate change in a White House speech on Wednesday, but said more immediate action must be taken regarding the issue.

After arriving at the South Portico of the White House Wednesday morning, Francis was greeted by President Obama before he began his speech on the importance and urgency of addressing climate change.

The pope said the issue of climate change "can no longer be left to a future generation, " adding that the issue "demands on our part a serious and responsible recognition."

The pope added that the issue of climate change must be addressed to help the younger generations of Americans who will be faced with greater climate issues in the future.

Francis also praised the president's efforts on combatting climate change, saying: "I find it encouraging that you are proposing an initiative for reducing air pollution. Accepting the urgency, it seems clear to me also that climate change is a problem which can no longer be left to a future generation. When it comes to the care of our common home, we are living at a critical moment of history."

The pope also addressed the topic of religious liberty in the U.S., calling it "one of America's most precious possessions."

"All are called to be vigilant," the pope continued, adding "to preserve and defend that freedom from everything that would threaten or compromise it."