At the end of the Mass in Erbil, Pope Francis praised the generosity and heroic testimony of the Iraqis, thanking all those who made his visit possible.
Vatican News staff writer
Pope Francis offered his sincere gratitude to the local leaders of the Church in Erbil; in Mar Gewargis III, Catholic-patriarch of the Assyrian church of the East; Christians of various denominations; The Chaldean Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda; and all the bishops, the government and the civil authorities and the numerous volunteers for their great welcome and assistance.
Seva Greetings came to the conclusion of the Mass celebrated on Sunday evening 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. “Even so, 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 shared testimonies of grief and loss, the Pope also noted the stories of “hope and consolation,” especially thanks to the “tireless charitable outreach” of religious institutions of all faiths that help rebuild and social renaissance. The Pope gave special thanks to the umbrella organization ROACO which represents the Catholic aid agencies.
“Iraq will always stay with me, in my heart,” the pope said, 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 prayers and asked all people of good will to “work together to forge bonds of brotherhood and solidarity in the service of the common good and peace … May God bless you all! May God bless Iraq! ”