Pope Francis: May God bless Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan

Pope Francis: May God bless Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan

PanARMENIAN.Net - Pope Francis reflected on his recent visit to Georgia and Azerbaijan during his General Audience on Wednesday, October 5. He told pilgrims at St Peter's Square: "This visit complemented my visit to Armenia in June, and fulfilled my desire to visit all three nations of the Caucasus to confirm the Catholic community and to encourage all the people in their journey toward peace and fraternity." He concluded his address with the prayer, "May God bless Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan, and guide his holy people in those countries," the Independent Catholic News reports.

"I renew my gratitude to the civil and religious authorities of both countries, in particular to the Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, and to the Sheikh of the Muslims of the Caucasus. The Catholic Church is called to be close to the countries, especially through works of charity and promoting the good of the human person, in communion with the other Churches and Christian communities, and in dialogue with other religious communities.

In Georgia, our cooperation is naturally with our Orthodox brothers and sisters, and so Patriarch Ilia's presence at the airport upon my arrival was a very important sign, as well as our visit to the Patriarchal Cathedral and our meeting which was very moving. Our unity is seen in the blood of so many Christian martyrs of different Christian confessions, especially the Assyrian-Chaldean, with whom we prayed for peace in Syria, Iraq and the whole Middle East. In Azerbaijan, a primarily Muslim country, I was able to participate in an interreligious meeting and to celebrate Mass with the small Catholic community. Our communion of faith inspires us to deepen our encounter and dialogue with all who believe in God, so that together we can build a more just and fraternal world. May God bless Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan, and guide his holy people in those countries."

During the audience the Pope also greeted a group of Auschwitz survivors. He said: "Today we celebrate the memory of St Faustina Kowalska.. She reminded the world that God is rich in mercy and that His love is more powerful than death, sin and every evil. May this message of the Merciful Jesus, entrusted to her, bear fruit in your life with a deeper union with God and the works of mercy."

He concluded his remarks by saying: "Entrusting to the Lord ourselves, and the difficult problems of the world, we frequently repeat: 'Jesus, I trust in you!'. Praised be Jesus Christ."

The Holy Father also delighted pilgrims by meeting a group of dogs and dog trainers from the 'Federazione Italiana Sport Cinofili'. He blessed the animals, and then petted many of them and shook hands with their 'coaches'.

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