Pope Francis’ 35th apostolic journey in brief

Pope Francis visited Cyprus and Greece during his 35th international apostolic visit from 2-6 December 2021. The Pope is the third sovereign pontiff to visit these two countries, after Benedict XVI, who visited Cyprus in 2010, and Pope John Paul II, who visited Greece in 2001 to meet with communities there. During his visit, the Holy Father met with church and lay leaders, refugees, Catholic communities and young people. And through his words and presence, he drew people’s attention to a loving God who heals wounds, stressing the importance of openness and closeness to others. In what follows, I will highlight the thoughts that have been particularly prominent in these few days, summarising Pope Francis’ speeches in Cyprus and Greece.