His Holiness Pope Francis expressed his appreciation for his visit to the Italian city of Bari, where he prayed for peace in the Middle East. The Pontiff was accompanied during this “special day of prayer and peace in that region” by Patriarchs of Churches of the Middle East and their representatives.
As reported by Vatican news, Holy Father Pope Francis remarked that “I give thanks to God for this meeting, which was an eloquent sign of Christian unity, and saw the enthusiastic participation of God’s people.” His Holiness Pope Francis once again thanked his “Brother Heads of Churches”, their representatives, and His Excellency Archbishop Francesco Cacucci of Bari for his welcome. The Pontiff said that he was “edified by their attitude and witness.”
Finally, His Holiness Pope Francis thanked the many faithful who accompanied and supported the Pope and the Patriarchs “through their prayer and joyful presence”. The Pontiff had hosted an ecumenical reflection and prayer meeting in the southern Italian city of Bari for peace in the Middle East.
