Pope Benedict XVI concludes US visit

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The Pope celebrated Mass for 57-thousand worshippers in Yankee Stadium. Photo: EFE

Pope Benedict XVI left New York City on Sunday after a 6-day visit to the Unites States.

US Vice President Dick Cheney hosted a farewell ceremony for the pope at New York's John F Kennedy airport before his departure.

Cheney said the pontiff had "stepped into the history of our country in a very special way."

"Some 60 million Americans belong to his fold and all of America respects this messenger of peace and justice and freedom,'' he added.

Cheney also noted that the US was "facing many challenges" but also had "more blessings than any of us could number."

Benedict spoke of the places he had visited and especially mentioned the United Nations, where he spoke on Friday.

"I give thanks for all this organisation has been able to achieve in defending and promoting the fundamental rights of every man, woman and child throughout the world and I encourage people of good will everywhere to continue working tirelessly to promote justice and peaceful coexistence between peoples and nations," the pontiff said.

Before leaving, Benedict added: "May God bless America"

Earlier in the day, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church celebrated Mass for 57-thousand worshippers in Yankee Stadium and visited the site of the September 11 attacks.