Pope Francis visits Lesvos refugee camp

“You are not alone, do not lose hope”, said Pope Francis on Saturday during his visit at the refugee hotspot of Moria, on Lesvos – Greece. He was accompanied by Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomaios and Archbishop Ieronymos, the head of the Church of Greece.

In his speech Pope Francis said he wished to bring to the world’s attention the serious humanitarian crisis and to appeal for a solution to be found. “We want to join our voices with yours and speak in your name as people of faith,” the Pope said.

The three religious leaders signed a declaration addressed to the international community, asking to respond with courage to the immense humanitarian crisis and “the tragedy of forced migration and displacement,” as well as the deeper causes of this situation. They called for action through diplomatic, political and charitable initiatives, and through collective efforts, both in the Middle East and in Europe.

Pope Francis also met with Prime Minster Alexis Tsipras.

With information from the Athens News Agency-Macedonian Press Agency
PHOTO: Greek Prime Minister’s twitter