The Holy Father, Pope Francis, is making an apostolic visit to the people of Iraq. His visit will be a consolation for the Christian people of that troubled land. The Christian Faith has a long ancient presence. The disciples of Jesus there have suffered greatly. They are a Church of martyrs. Let us accompany the Holy Father with our prayers for peace, reconciliation, and religious liberty for all the Iraqi people. May the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and St. Joseph, her beloved spouse, bring them the healing and hope of the Lord Jesus.
In Sacramento, we are blessed to have a vibrant community of Iraqi Christians who gather at the Chaldean Catholic Church dedicated to the honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. I express my abiding fond admiration for the strong testimony of their faith. May this historic visit of Pope Francis to their homeland bring encouragement and solace to them as well.