Pope Francis concluded a two-day visit to the island of Malta on Sunday with a visit to a shelter housing around 50 migrants.
The shelter is run by volunteers and provides medical and educational services. During the visit, Pope Francis called for Europe to show compassion to would-be refugees who cross the Mediterranean Sea from Libya.
READ ALSO: Hon. Abiola Makinde Declares Second Term Ambition
“Shipwreck is something that thousands of men, women and children have experienced in the Mediterranean in recent years. Sadly, for many of them, it ended in tragedy. Even yesterday, the news of a shipwreck off the coast of Libya, only four people survived from a boat with around 90 people. Let’s pray for our brothers that found death in our Mediterranean Sea”, appealed Francis.
I thank all those who worked hard to prepare this #ApostolicJourney and the citizens of #Malta for your welcome. I will remember the luminous face of Malta! You are a treasure in the Church and for the Church. Do not forget: the joy of the Church is to evangelize.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) April 3, 2022
The Pope also expressed his gratitude for the welcome Europe has shown Ukrainian refugees fleeing the Russian invasion.
The trip to Malta has been particularly taxing for the 85-year-old pontiff, who is suffering from a chronic strained ligament in his right knee.