WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Pope Benedict's first public Mass in the United States was held in Washington on Thursday, where 46,000 people turned out to hear the pontiff.

Washington's brand-new baseball stadium was filled to capacity. Many in the crowd waved to Benedict as he stood in the back of a white "popemobile," making its way around the field.

Pope Benedict spoke for about 20 minutes, during which time he praised America as a land of hope.

"Americans have always been a people of hope," he said. "Your ancestors came to this country with the experience of finding new freedom and opportunity. To be sure, this promise was not experienced by all the inhabitants of this land; one thinks of the injustices endured by the Native American peoples and by those brought here forcibly from Africa as slaves."

Many local students, priests, seminarians and youth leaders from the Pittsburgh Diocese boarded two buses in Crafton overnight to be a part of the papal Mass.

Amanda Urgitus, of Darlington, said, "It was just amazing to see everyone so excited to see the pope."

"It’s mesmerizing, it's unbelievable, and it's an experience that will last forever in our memories," said Matthew Drzik of Beaver Falls.

A local man had a major role in the pope's Mass. Butler County native Tom Stehle directed more than 50 songs that were performed Thursday.

Friday morning, the pope will journey to New York.

Comcast said it will make both Thursday's Mass and Sunday's Mass in New York available 'On Demand.'

That means digital cable customers can watch the Masses anytime they want. Comcast said there will be no additional charges.

Thursday's Mass will be available by Friday morning. Both will be viewable through April 27.