Pope backs immigrants, says they will renew US

Philadelphia: Pope Francis in Philadelphia hailed the immigrants' contribution and said they "will help renew" society in the US.

The pontiff on Saturday showed his support for people from other countries who immigrated to the US, and assured that they will find their place and encouraged them not to lose hope whatever difficulties they might face, Efe news agency reported.

Francis, who earlier this week presented himself to President Barack Obama at the White House as a "son of immigrants", said to tens of thousands of people, "You bring many gifts to your new nation. Never be ashamed of your traditions."

"Many of you have immigrated to this country at a great personal cost, but with hopes of finding a new life. Do not be discouraged by the challenges and difficulties you must face," he said.

"When you contribute your talents, you will not only find a place here, but will help renew society from within," said Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who arrived on Saturday in Philadelphia, the last stop on his trip to the US.

The pontiff expressed his support in the context of a speech on religious freedom that he gave in Spanish at Philadelphia's Independence National Historical Park to a gathering of the US Hispanic community and representatives of other immigrant groups.