Bernie Sanders invited to the Vatican to speak

Presidential hopeful Sanders will leave campaign trail to speak on economic issues.

Democratic Presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders will be visiting the Vatican next week to speak on economic issues and how to build en economy that works for all people. Both Pope Francis and Bernie Sanders are thought to have similar economic views.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - Following his debate against Hillary Clinton in New York on April 14, Bernie Sanders will travel to Rome where he will visit the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. During his visit, he is expected to speak during a gathering hosted by the Academy to discuss economic issues.

The Academy often advises the Pope on various matters especially scientific issues. The Pontifical Academy of Sciences is prestigious and exceptional and is tasked with providing the pope with current information as well as promoting mathematics, science and natural understanding, particularly within the epistemological framework of the faith.

Sanders has commented on the invitation saying, "I am grateful to the Vatican for inviting me to talk about an issue that is very dear to my heart, which is how we create a moral economy that works for all of the people rather than just the top one percent. I will also in my remarks be addressing the planetary crisis of climate change and the moral imperative to make sure we leave this planet in a way that is healthy and habitable for future generations.

"I think the Vatican has been aware of the fact that, in many respects, the pope's views and my views are very much related," Sanders said. "He has talked in an almost unprecedented way about the need to address income and wealth inequality, poverty and to combat the greed that we're seeing all over this world, which is doing so much harm to so many people. . For me, it is an extraordinary honor to receive this invitation."

Sanders has frequently referred to the teachings of Pope Francis and has complimented the Holy Father's commitment to the poor and the environment.

Bernie Sanders is behind in the presidential race, but still stands a chance to win. Recently, national polls have turned in his favor and he is surging from behind in states like New York and California, where he will need a commanding lead to win the election. Even modest wins could throw the election into a contested status where he could win during the national convention.

A visit with Pope Francis, or even just to speak at the Vatican could boost his perception among Catholic voters.

Unfortunately, Sanders is a vocal anti-life candidate, and supports abortion. This major caveat is a barrier for many Catholics who otherwise appreciate his stance on economic and environmental issues.

Sanders will be giving up at least a day on the campaign trail in hotly contested New York to speak at the Vatican, which demonstrates his sincerity for the issues he commonly discusses.