Pope Francis and President Nelson hold historic Vatican meeting

VATICAN CITY — For the first time in history, the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the pope, the leader of the Catholic church, have met.

Here’s video of the moment when President Nelson walked up to speak about his visit with Pope Francis at the Vatican. @KSL5TV pic.twitter.com/l3yvQVuuVK

— Sam Penrod (@KSLsampenrod) March 9, 2019

After meeting with the Pope, President Nelson said, “We had a most cordial, unforgettable experience with His Holiness. He was most gracious and warm and welcoming to President Ballard and me.”

KSL TV reporter Sam Penrod shared photos of President Russell M. Nelson addressing reporters after this historic Vatican meeting.

We just heard from President Russell M. Nelson following his papal audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican. He says the two leaders had a wonderful visit and felt an instant friendship with Pope Francis. It’s the first time a church president has met with a pope. @KSL5TV pic.twitter.com/9gmT4HeuZs

— Sam Penrod (@KSLsampenrod) March 9, 2019

According to President Nelson, the two faith leaders exchanged gifts and discussed the importance of continuing to help the poor, religious freedoms, families and other topics.

The two leaders of churches spent a portion of their historic meeting to discuss extending a helping hand to the poor of the world. The two also talked of continuing their work together.

The issue of religious freedom was a spotlight of the meeting that lasted for more than thirty minutes.

The two also discussed the paramountcy of faith to people throughout the world.  They examined the role and preservation of families and the needs of the youth.

There was a brief exchanged gifts.  They hugged each other said their goodbyes, concluding a meeting that coincides with the

He described Pope Francis as gracious and kind, and said he felt an instant friendship with him.

This story will be updated.