Despite the rainy weather, thousands of people came out to see Pope Francis pray the Angelus in St. Peter's Square.
Reflecting on Sunday's Gospel, he said that Christians who express hate, are a walking contradiction.
POPE FRANCIS
'It's a contradiction to have Christians who hate one another. It's a contradiction! This is what the devil wants, he wants us to hate each other, because he sows seeds of hatred. He doesn't understand love. Love is based on God.â?
With the recent tension in Iraq, including the overtaking of the country's second largest city, the Pope prayed for those who've been forced to flee their homes because of the violence.
POPE FRANCIS
'With a lot of worry, I'm following the recent developments in Iraq. I invite all of you to join me in praying for our dear Iraqi nation, especially for the victims and for those who are suffering the consequences of the rising violence. Among them, there are many Christians who have been forced to flee their own homes.â?
The Pope also surprised everyone when he announced that on September 21, he will be traveling to the country of Albania.
POPE FRANCIS
'With this brief trip, I want to strengthen the faith of the Church in Albania. I want to show my support and love for a country that has suffered the consequences of past ideologies, for a very long time.â?
Next Thursday is the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, the Pope invited everyone to join him when he celebrates Mass in St. John Lateran, and takes part in a procession through the streets of Rome.
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