pope visit in Iraq

Much of Qaraqosh – a northern Iraqi city that was controlled by the Islamic State group from 2014 to 2016 – was destroyed during the jihadist occupation. Four years after the city was liberated during the battle for Mosul, only half of the city’s population has returned. The visit of Pope Francis to one of the most war-torn areas has brought a breath of hope and optimism to the large Christian community. “Your presence here is a reminder that beauty is not monochrome, but shines forth in variety and difference.”