Syrian Refugees Thank Pope Francis for His ‘Act of Generosity’

Pope Francis took three families of Syrian refugees back to Rome from the migrant crisis at a camp in Greece.

Kids hold up a banner with writing in Italian reading “Thank you Pope Francis” as they welcome a group of 12 Syrian refugees in Rome. (Photo: AP)

Pope Francis took three families of Syrian refugees back to Rome last week after visiting the frontline of Europe’s migrant crisis at a camp in Greece where migrants wept at his feet, kissed his hand and begged for help.

A Vatican statement said:

The Pope has desired to make a gesture of welcome regarding refugees, accompanying on his plane to Rome three families of refugees from Syria, 12 people in all, including six children.

The statement also mentioned that the refugees who fled to Rome were all Muslims.

The pope stressed that taking them to Rome was a humanitarian, not a political, gesture.

(With inputs from Reuters)