Pope Francis arrives in New York City for two-day visit

NEW YORK, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Pope Francis arrived in New York City Thursday afternoon to throngs of cheering crowds who turned out to welcome the pontiff to the Big Apple for a two-day visit.

The pope touched down at John F. Kennedy International Airport, where he spoke briefly and urged his clergy members, brothers and nuns to avoid the material temptations that may accompany their duties, The New York Times reported.

"We can get caught up measuring the value of our apostolic works by the standards of efficiency, good management and outward success which govern the business world," he said. "Rest is needed, as are moments of leisure and self-enrichment, but we need to learn how to rest in a way that deepens our desire to serve with generosity."

The pope arrived from Washington, D.C., where he spent two days and spoke about various issues -- in addition to meeting President Barack Obama and addressing a joint session of Congress.

After arriving at the airport, Pope Francis was whisked into the city via helicopter -- from which scores of cheering people could be seen lining the streets.

The pope was scheduled to attend a prayer session at St. Patrick's Cathedral in lower Manhattan.

Friday, the pontiff is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly before attending a service at the 9/11 Memorial and World Trade Center complex. From there, he is expected to visit Harlem and Central Park and conduct a Catholic mass at Madison Square Garden to finish the day.

Saturday, the pope departs for Philadelphia, where he will spend the weekend before returning to Rome Sunday night.