At the close of the Mass in Erbil, Pope Francis praised the generosity and heroic testimony of Iraqis, while thanking all those who made his visit possible.
Vatican News Staff Writer
Pope Francis offered his sincere gratitude to the leaders of the local Church in Erbil; Mar Gewargis III, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East; Christians of various denominations; Chaldean Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda; and to all the Bishops, the government and civil authorities, and the numerous volunteers for their great welcome and assistance.
His Greetings came at the end of the Mass celebrated on Sunday night in Erbil.
He warmly greeted the “beloved Kurdish people” and paid tribute to all Christians of various traditions, many of whom shed their blood here. “However, our martyrs shine together like stars in the same sky!” said the Pope; and “from there they call us to walk together, without hesitation, towards the fullness of unity”.
While many testimonies of grief and loss shared, the Pope also noted the stories of “hope and consolation”, especially thanks to the “tireless charitable work” of religious institutions of all religions helping to rebuild and rebirth socially. The Pope offered special thanks to the umbrella organization ROACO that represents Catholic aid agencies.
“Iraq will always be with me, in my heart,” said the Pope, and encouraged everyone to “work together in unity for a future of peace and prosperity that leaves no one behind and does not discriminate against anyone”. He assured them of his prayer and called on all people of good will to “work together to forge bonds of fraternity and solidarity in the service of the common good and peace … May God bless everyone! May God bless Iraq! ”