Pope Francis' Apostolic Visit to Iraq: 1. Journey begins

Pope boards place - image Vatican Media

Source: Vatican News

Pope Francis Rome at 7.45 local time to begin his Apostolic Visit to Iraq which takes place from 5-8 March.

During the flight to Bagdad Pope Francis sent messages of peace and blessing to each head of state as the papal plane flew over their country.

Italy

Pope Francis first sent a message to President Sergio Mattarella:

As I leave Rome to go to Iraq, a pilgrim of peace and brotherhood among peoples, I am pleased to address to you, Mr President, my respectful greeting, which I accompany with fervent wishes of serenity and prosperity for the dear Italian people.

Greece

The Pope's next telegram was addressed to Greek President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, as he flew over Greece:

As my Apostolic Journey to Iraq takes me over Greek airspace, I send warm greetings to your Excellency and pray that God Almighty will bestow upon you and your fellow citizens his blessings of unity, peace and prosperity.

Cyprus

Flying over Cyprus, The Holy Father addressed President Nicos Anastasiades:

Entering Cypriot airspace on my Apostolic Journey to Iraq, I extend cordial greetings to your Excellency and the people of Cyprus, with fervent prayers that God will bless you all with harmony and peace.

Palestine

Addressing Palestinian President Mahmous Abbas, Pope Francis wrote:

As I fly over Palestinian territory on my Apostolic Journey to Iraq, I extend cordial greetings to Your Excellency and your fellow citizens, and I pray that the Most High God will bless all Palestinians with peace and well-being.

Israel

The Papal plane then flew over Israel, where Pope Francis sent a telegram to President Reuven Rivlin:

Entering Israeli airspace on my Apostolic Journey to Iraq, I send warm greetings to you and the people of the nation, praying that Almighty God will bless all with his gifts of harmony and peace.

Jordan

The final state to receive a telegram from Pope Francis was Jordan, where the Holy Father wrote to King Abdullah II, before arriving in Iraq:

I offer cordial greetings to Your Majesty, the members of the Royal Family and the people of Jordan as I fly over Jordanian airspace on my Apostolic Journey to Iraq. Upon the entire nation, I invoke the abundant blessings of the Most High.

In preparation for the journey yesterday, Pope Francis visited the Basilica of St Mary Major. He brought flowers and prayed before the ancient icon of Maria Salus Populi Romani, entrusting his Apostolic Journey to Iraq to the protection of Our Lady.