There is no official confirmation yet of the announced papal visit to the Greek island of Lesbos, where the Pope is to travel to, to express his closeness to migrants. This is according to the Vatican spokesman, Fr. Federico Lombardi, who spoke to journalists in the early afternoon. The news about Pope Francis’ visit to the island on Friday 15 April came from Greece yesterday. The Vatican did not confirm any details yesterday or today but Fr. Lombardi said he expected he would have information about the visit tomorrow. What is known is that it will take place soon.
Yesterday evening, the Greek presidency informed that the Greek head of state, Prokopis Pavlopoulos, has officially invited the Pope to visit the island of Lesbos in a letter sent by the Greek ambassador to the Holy See.
According to the Greek press, in his letter, Pavlopoulos describes the difficult circumstances faced by refugees who are stuck in Greece. The Greek president underlined the need for increased awareness in other European countries, pointing out that the Pope’s visit will draw attention to their plea.
“I am convinced,” Pavlopoulos wrote in his letter, “that Your presence on the side of refugees, will not only console them, but will also turn everyone’s attention to their dramatic situation, touching the hearts of people around the world.”
