Pontiff's trip to one of the world's oldest Christian communities comes despite ongoing conflict, pandemic lockdown; aims to deepen dialogue with Muslim world
May there be an end to acts of violence and extremism, factions and intolerance! urged Francis in the stirring address, his first after arriving in Iraq.
Francis landed in the afternoon at Baghdad s International Airport, where he was greeted by Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhemi, as well as groups showcasing Iraq s diverse folklore music and dance.
He then met with President Barham Saleh - who had extended the official invitation to the pontiff in 2019 - as well as other government and religious figures.
At the imposing presidential palace, the head of the world s 1.3 billion Catholics gave a moving address, stressing the deep roots of Christianity in Iraq.
Pope Francis Says He s Making Emblematic Trip to Iraq That s a Duty thetablet.org - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from thetablet.org Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
VATICAN CITY (RNS) Visiting the Assyrian Catholic cathedral in Baghdad, Francis rallied Iraqis in the face of the challenges of the pandemic and the ravages of war and terrorism over the past two decades.
Pope Francis Begins Visit to Iraq The Media Line Staff 03/05/2021
Pope Francis left Rome Friday on a four-day trip to Iraq. It is the first papal visit to Iraq, and Francis’ first international trip since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.
Iraq has dispatched thousands of additional security officers to protect the pontiff during his visit to four Iraqi provinces. He is scheduled to lead Mass in a church in Baghdad, the site of several rocket attacks in recent weeks. On Wednesday at least 10 rockets struck the Ain al-Asad air base in Anbar province, which hosts US and Iraqi troops. While in Baghdad, Francis is scheduled to meet Iraqi President Barham Salih and other government officials. The pope also will visit Ur, the birthplace of the biblical Abraham.