Pope Francis continues with the first papal trip to Iraq despite new outbreaks of the coronavirus and fears of instability.
The whole picture: The March 5 to 8 visit is intended to reassure Christians in Iraq who have been violently persecuted under the Islamic State. Francis also hopes to strengthen ties with Shiite Muslims, says AP.
- The journey comes after two decades of attempts to bring a pope to the birthplace of Abraham, a prophet considered the patriarch of Judaism, Islam and Christianity.
Between the lines: Recent rocket attacks and the presence of rogue Shiite militias have raised concerns about security.
- According to Johns Hopkins University, Iraq’s daily number of coronavirus cases has also increased since the end of January.
- The pope is expected to travel by AP in an armored car with a safety detail.
Itinerary:
- March 5: Welcome ceremony with civilian authorities and visit with the President in the Presidential Palace in Baghdad. Visit the Syro-Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of Salvation.
- March 6: Visit with Grand Ayatollah al-Sistani in Najaf. Inter-religious gathering in Nassirya and Mass at the Chaldean Cathedral of Saint Joseph in Baghdad.
- March 7: Meeting with Iraqi Kurdistan’s religious and civilian authorities in Erbil. Prayer for victims of war and visit to the Qaraqosh community in Mosul.
- March 8: Farewell ceremony in Baghdad.