Pope arrives in Iraq: What you need to know

Picture courtesy : NY times

Pope Francis began his three-day visit to Iraq on Friday. He arrived in Baghdad amid coronavirus and security concerns. The pope was welcomed by the Prime Minister of Iraq Mustafa al-Kadhimi. The visit is aimed at supporting the Christian community in Iraq. This visit marks the first time the Pope has traveled since the pandemic. Some were concerned about choosing Iraq as the first destination, however, the pope said that given the situation in the country it is even more important that he takes this visit. On Friday evening, he visited Our Lady of Salvation Church in Baghdad and met priests and bishops there. “I am happy to travel again,” the pope said.