Papal Visit

Pope Reminds Americans To Use Freedoms Wisely

Final U.S. Mass Leaves Lasting Impression

NEW YORK (CBS) ― Pope Benedict XVI received a standing ovation from an energized crowd of nearly 60,000 at Yankee Stadium for his final mass in America. The pontiff used this opportunity to remind Americans to use their freedoms wisely.

"In this land of religious liberty, Catholics found freedom not only to practice their faith, but also to participate fully in civic life," Benedict said. He repeated a core message of his six-day pilgrimage - that faith must play a role in public life.

"Young men and women of America, I urge you: open your hearts to the Lord's call to follow him in the priesthood and the religious life," Benedict said. "Can there be any greater mark of love than this: to follow in the footsteps of Christ?"

The faithful filled every seat, chanting, and waving white and yellow handkerchiefs in the Vatican's colors as the white popemobile exited the stadium.

Benedict's message of hope left a lasting impression on those who heard his words.

"It was an exhilarating experience," said Craig Eaton. "You could just feel the love and the warmth. It was the greatest place to be today."

"It was fantastic, it was unbelievable," added Frank McLoud. "It was a sight to be seen." To McLoud, the most memorable part was when the pope "spoke about the vocation, he spoke about us all living as one. He's a peace maker."

Teri Danderg had similar views. According to her, the "best part was 50,000 people celebrating mass together - unifying everyone."

The mass at Yankee Stadium was Benedict's last planned event in the United States.

CBS 2's Sean Hennessey contributed to this report.

(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

---