Pope prays for Iraq

Pontiff following events closely

Pope Francis has called on the faithful to join him in praying for Iraq as Islamic militants continue to bring death and chaos to the country.

During his Sunday Angelus, June 15, the Pontiff said:"I invite all of you to unite yourselves with my prayer for the dear Iraqi nation, especially for the victims and for those who most suffer the consequences of the growing violence, in particular the many persons, among whom are so many Christians, who have had to leave their homes."

Stating that he followed unfolding events in Iraq closely, Pope Francis added his hope that all in the country would find “security and peace and a future of reconciliation and justice where all Iraqis, whatever their religious affiliation, will be able together to build up their country, making a model of coexistence”.