Report contributed by Vatican Radio via news.va.
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The family of Syrian refugees being hosted by the Vatican parish of Santa Anna had the opportunity to thank Pope Francis for his hospitality towards them on Saturday morning.
Their visit came shortly before the Holy Father departed for Cuba and the United States.
The Syrian family, accompanied by the Pontifical Almoner Archbishop Konrad Krajewski, met Pope Francis briefly at the Santa Marta residence to say thank you and to wish him a safe trip.
Our Lady’s help
On Friday evening (September 18), Pope Francis visited the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome for a moment of prayer before his 10th Apostolic Voyage as Pontiff.
It has become traditional for the Holy Father to visit the Papal Basilica and to pray before the Salus Populi Romani (Protectress of the Roman People) image of the Blessed Virgin Mary before a trip.
