The pope’s four-day trip is intended to nurture ties with Shiite Muslims and encourage a Christian population decimated by years of strife.
Tag: Francis
In Pictures: Pope Francis in Iraq
As the pope makes a three-day trip to Iraq, a look at images of the historic moment.
In Iraq’s Christian Heartland, a Feud Over a Town’s Identity
Pope Francis will arrive in a country whose ancient Christian towns are in danger of disappearing. In one, a Christian community’s survival may come at the expense of another minority group.
Your Friday Briefing
The female heroes of Myanmar’s protests.
Why Is Pope Francis Visiting Iraq?
The trip is taking place despite concerns about the pandemic and security. Here’s a brief look at why Francis is visiting Iraq, what the trip will entail and what he hopes to achieve.
Pope’s Planned Visit to Iraq, Amid Pandemic, Raises Questions of Timing
Pope Francis has said he is determined to visit the war-torn country. But some worry that the visit will become a superspreader event in a land where the virus still rages.
Pope Formalizes Women’s Roles, but Priesthood Stays Out of Reach
Pope Francis has amended the Catholic Church laws so that women may be Bible readers at Mass, serve at the altar and distribute communion — practices already common in many countries.
Pope Calls Coronavirus Vaccinations an Ethical Obligation
Saying he will be vaccinated himself next week, Francis described the refusal to get the vaccine as suicidal.
Pope Francis to Skip New Year Services Because of Leg Condition
The Vatican said Pope Francis was suffering from sciatica, which has hobbled him in the past. But he will lead the noontime Angelus prayer on New Year’s Day.
Argentina Senate to Vote on Bill Legalizing Abortion
A bill before the Senate would make abortion legal in the predominantly Catholic nation, the homeland of Pope Francis. Its approval likely would have significant effect across Latin America.