Pope Francis is visiting the U.S. for the first time, and on Thursday, he delivered a stirring speech before Congress that was part prayer and part lecture, calling for a peaceful, unified response to the social and political challenges that are affecting people across the world.

For about 30 minutes, the pope engaged members of Congress in a conversation that touched on American history, biblical teachings, immigration, environmentalism, and foreign conflict, standing in front of Vice President Joe Biden and House Speaker John Boehner, who was moved to tears during the speech.

Francis had been expected to give a "tough love" address to Congress over issues such as income inequality, climate change, and religious freedom. Indeed, the pope incorporated a variety of social and political messages into his speech; but rather than condemn the leadership, Francis simply emphasized the Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

Here's how people are reacting to Pope Francis' historic speech before Congress.