At the end of the Erbil Mass, Pope Francis praised the generosity and heroic testimony of the Iraqis, while thanking all those who made his visit possible.
Vatican News staff writer
Pope Francis wholeheartedly thanked the leaders of the local Church in Erbil; to Mar Gewargis III, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church in the East; Christians of different faiths; Chaldean Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda; and all the bishops, the government and the civil authorities, and the many volunteers for their great reception and assistance.
His Hello came to the conclusion of the Liturgy celebrated on Sunday evening in Erbil.
He wholeheartedly welcomed the “beloved Kurdish people” and paid homage 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 he calls us to go together, without hesitation, to the fullness of unity.”
While many shared testimonies of grief and loss, the Pope also noted stories of “hope and consolation,” especially due to the “tireless charitable action” of religious institutions of any faith that help rebuild and social rebirth. The Pope offered special thanks to the umbrella organization ROACO, which represents Catholic aid agencies.
“Iraq will always stand by 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 called on all people of good will to “work together to make bonds of brotherhood and solidarity in the service of the common good and peace … God bless you all! God bless Iraq! ”