Pope Francis's First Day in Iraq

Pope Francis arrived in Iraq today, on the first ever Papal visit to the Middle Eastern nation.

Pope Francis has arrived in Iraq. pic.twitter.com/2i65MRHMM2

— Catholic Arena (@CatholicArena) March 5, 2021

He was greeted by a vibrant reception of music and dancing at the airport, with many religious in attendance.

Pope Francis being greeted in Iraq. pic.twitter.com/MkLyu9pCze

— Catholic Arena (@CatholicArena) March 5, 2021

Crowds gathered along the road to welcome his arrival also.

Crowds gathering to welcome Pope Francis today in Iraq. pic.twitter.com/7lSw09mVAz

— Catholic Arena (@CatholicArena) March 5, 2021

From there, he travelled to Our Lady of Salvation Church, where 48 Catholics were murdered in 2010.

Pope Francis arriving to Our Lady of Salvation Church in Baghdad.

58 Catholics were massacred there in 2010. pic.twitter.com/4b6wFA1U72

— Catholic Arena (@CatholicArena) March 5, 2021

Pope Francis in Baghdad. #PopeInIraq pic.twitter.com/kzLVBnrrhX

— Aid To The Church In Need (@ireland_acn) March 5, 2021

Francis also met with leaders in the Iraqi government.

#PopeFrancis meets with Iraqi civil authorities at the Presidential Palace in Baghdad, and urges them to find a solid foundation in human fraternity. #PopeInIraqhttps://t.co/3cxQJA3fEt pic.twitter.com/vT5FKTJ8BR

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) March 5, 2021

His visit will continue tomorrow, with the weekend seeing him travel to Ur and to the square in Mosul, the city where ISIS massacred so many Christians.