President Barack Obama called himself a ‘‘great admirer’’ of Pope Francis as he sat down at the Vatican Thursday with the pontiff he considers a kindred spirit on issues of economic inequality. Their nearly hourlong first meeting comes as Obama’s administration remains deeply split with the church over abortion and contraception. Obama arrived at the Vatican amid the pomp and tradition of the Catholic Church, making his way to greet the pope after a long, slow procession through the hallways of the Apostolic Palace led by colorful Swiss Guards and accompanied by ceremonial attendants. The president bowed as he shook hands with the pontiff in the Small Throne Room, before the two sat down at a wooden table in the Papal Library. ‘‘It is a great honor. I'm a great admirer,’’ a broadly grinning Obama said. ‘‘Thank you so much for receiving me.’’ More updates to come. ...More Pictures From The Boston Globe
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