Neither the threat of catching COVID-19 nor the risk of spreading it was enough to force Pope Francis to cancel his high-profile trip to Iraq, where he visited churches oftentimes packed with crowds …
In Iraq visit, pope calls on Christians to forgive, rebuild after Islamic State’s devastating reign
Pope Francis visited the wrecked shells of churches and met ecstatic crowds in the community’s historic heartland, which was nearly erased by the Islamic State group’s horrific reign.
Iraq’s Shia brace for election battle
With elections in Iraq only months away … since it could plunge a country already hobbled by financial fragility, political chaos, sectarian divides and terrorism threats into a renewed period …
Pope Francis Defends Iraq Trip Amid Virus Concerns
Speaking aboard the papal plane, Pope Francis said he debated his decision to visit Iraq due to pandemic concerns, but ultimately left the fate of the Iraqi people up to God.
Pope Francis Ends Historic Trip at a Critical Moment for Iraq
Iraqi officials say the successful four-day visit is a testament to Iraqi capabilities and the battered country’s integral role in the region.
Pope Francis Defends Iraq Trip Despite Covid-19 Risks
Pope Francis responded to public-health concerns about his trip to Iraq by saying he had considered the dangers, but ultimately trusted in God to protect Iraqis.
Joyous, hopeful scenes are not the only legacy of Pope’s visit to Iraq
Pope Francis’ trip to Iraq reminded the region of more peaceful times where coexistence was the norm, not the exception.
Pope Francis Defends Iraq Trip During Coronavirus Pandemic
The pontiff said that he had wrestled with the decision to go, but put the fate of the Iraqis who flocked to see him in God’s hands.
After historic whirlwind visit, Pope leaves Iraq for Rome
Pope Francis on Monday wrapped up his historic whirlwind tour of Iraq that sought to bring hope to the country’s marginalized Christian minority with a message of coexistence, forgiveness and peace.
Pope weighed Iraq virus risk but believes God will protect
Pope Francis said Monday he weighed the risks of a high-profile trip to Iraq during the coronavirus pandemic, but said he decided to go ahead with it after …