Connecticut governor calls pope inspiring and enlightening

HARTFORD, Conn. -- Connecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says Pope Francis was both "inspiring and enlightening" during his first full day in Washington, D.C.

The Democrat, who is Roman Catholic, was among the dignitaries invited by the White House to attend Wednesday's State Arrival Ceremony on the South Lawn. Malloy later attended the pope's Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

In a telephone interview, Malloy credited Francis for reaching out to people who've been disaffected by the church. Malloy, who supports abortion rights, said he's a "faithful person" but counts himself among "those Catholics who have at times felt marginalized by the church."

Malloy also praised Francis for addressing political topics such as poverty, climate change and immigration on Wednesday, calling it a very timely message.