Pope recalls apostolic journey to Caucasus, speaks of unity of martyrs’ blood

October 05, 2016

During his October 5 general audience, Pope Francis spoke about his recent apostolic journey to Georgia and Azerbaijan.

“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,” the Pope said to pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, according to the official English-language synthesis of his remarks.

“In Georgia, our cooperation is naturally with our Orthodox brothers and sisters,” the Pope said. “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.”

He added, “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.”

 

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Further information:

• General Audience - 2016.10.05 (YouTube Vatican)
• L’Udienza Generale, 05.10.2016 (Holy See Press Office)