Wharton to greet pope on White House lawn

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
April 10, 2008

Given the prevalence of Internet hoaxes, it's no wonder that one Sioux City man hesitated when he received an invitation to the White House.

Last Wednesday, Jim Wharton received word via an e-mail that he was invited to the south lawn of the White House, April 16, for the arrival of Pope Benedict XVI.

"The invitation came from the President and Mrs. Bush," noted Wharton, who is the former director of communications and stewardship for the Diocese of Sioux City. "Of course, the first thing you think of when you get something like this by e-mail is whether or not it's legitimate."

He called Congressman Steve King's office and they did some checking for him, confirming that it was a genuine invitation. It had come from the EOP - executive office of the president.

"I am very humbled that I would be on the invitation list for this event, which is a historic visit of the Holy Father to the nation's capitol," said Wharton.

While he is uncertain as to why he received an invitation, Wharton suspects that it is because he serves on the National Advisory Council to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. About 40 from throughout the country serve on the council.

"It will be a wonderful opportunity to see not only the President of the United States but Pope Benedict XVI in what I hope will be very up close," said Wharton.

He is married to Bev Wharton, president of Briar Cliff University in Sioux City. She happens to be invited to attend a meeting the very next day, April 17, when the pope addresses Catholic educators. She is not, however, invited to the April 16 event with her husband.

"These are wonderful opportunities for both of us," said Wharton.

Right now what's on his mind is praying for no rain, as he mentioned that the invitation clearly states that in the event of rain, the event is cancelled.

"That would be very disappointing, but we'll get the Carmelites working on that," he said. The reception on the White House lawn, which takes place on the pope's 81st birthday, is the only event which Wharton has a ticket.

The event is slated for 10:30 a.m. and admittance to the lawn will be granted at 7:30 a.m., but Wharton plans to arrive at 6:30 a.m. Not big on waiting in lines, he plans to "offer it up" for the sake of getting as close as possible.

After the public welcome, the Holy Father will meet with President Bush inside for private talks. This is only the second time in history that a pope has visited the White House.