At the end of the Wednesday's General Audience, Pope Francis met with the delegates of the many religious groups that call Iraq home. He met with Christian, Shia and Sunni Muslim leaders, as well as Sabeans and Yazidis.
“When we arrived, we were already very optimistic. But what we experienced has exceeded all expectations.”
The delegation took part in a meeting organized by the president of the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue, Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran.
The Pope greeted and spoke to each one individually. Of all the gifts they gave him, perhaps it was the candy that stood out most.
“These are traditional Iraqi sweets.”
“This entire visit is sweet.”
This was the delegation's first meeting with the Vatican. The purpose is to strengthen dialogue between all groups.