NEW YORK — Brian Williams returned to the airwaves of MSNBC to anchor coverage of the visit of Pope Francis to the United States on Tuesday, his first day back at work following his suspension from NBC News and demotion for misleading viewers about his role in news stories.

Dressed in a suit and blue striped tie, Williams made no mention of his absence. He anchored the network’s coverage from 3 to 5 p.m., stationed in Manhattan.

All business at first, Williams seemed to loosen up as his two-hour shift moved along. At one point, he was talking with NBC correspondent Anne Thompson.

“Thank you, Anne. Grab your personal belongings,” Williams said.