No kissing and no bare shoulders: Members of Congress told to behave during Papal Visit

Congress promises best behavior.

Pope Francis' visit becomes more conservative and subdued, as legislators are told to be on their best behavior and are given specific guidelines regarding Pope Francis' visit. According to The Daily Mail, they were told not to wear white and should not get too physically close with the pontiff. Congress was also told not to show partisanship.

MUNTINLUPA, PHILIPPINES (Catholic Online) - White clothing is exclusive to Pope Francis, according to Capitol Hill, advising lawmakers to dress formally and conservatively in dark colors. The State Department also told women attending the Papal events in Washington D.C.  to cover their elbows and shoulders. while skirts are only allowed if resting below the knee length. 

Unlike the "usual raucous" greeting presidents upon arrival for the annual State of the Union address delivery, the Hill explained the welcome greeting for Pope Francis is to be more subdued. There will be no hugs and kisses or even squeezes as part of greeting Pope Francis - only handshakes are allowed, and even this should only be initiated by the Holy See himself.
Selfies with the pope are not allowed, while selfie sticks are also prohibited in any of the places to be visited by Francis.

Members of Congress are not to display any form of partisan gesture, even if the Pope discusses any politically unpopular issues to any of the party. Usually, half of the legislators stay in their seats quietly while the other half clap in support of the speaker's statement.

"Congress will be on its very best behavior on this occasion," said Rep. Charlie Dent as a promise to Capitol Hill.

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