INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indiana Sen. Joe Donnelly says Pope Francis’ speech to Congress served as a reminder for partisan and divided lawmakers to stand up for the poor and powerless.

That was just one of the themes the Catholic senator took away from the Thursday address. He also said that he agrees with the pontiff’s view that climate change is an important social justice issue — a matter the pope raised while encouraging lawmakers to be more collaborative.

Donnelly says there’s a “fundamental” need to pass on cleaner water and air to the next generation. But he says some members of Indiana’s mostly Republican congressional delegation were likely “not too happy” to hear that message from the pope.

Donnelly also attended Wednesday’s Mass and a White House ceremony featuring the pope.