Pope Francis before leaving for his trip to Abu Dhabi visited this homeless shelter. It was constructed by the managers' of Rome's Fiumicino airport to temporarily accommodate the poor.
The pope visited the facility and joyfully greeted some of the people living there.
Afterward, Pope Francis boarded the plane to commence his 27th trip. This time to a Muslim country. It is the ninth one he has visited. It is also the first time a pope has traveled to the Arabian Peninsula.
During the flight, the pope greeted all the journalists accompanying him; and expressed his expectations for this journey.
POPE FRANCIS
'It is a very short trip. However, this morning I was told it is raining in Abu Dhabi and this is considered a sign of blessing. May this journey be so.”
As a present to all the journalists, Pope Francis presented them an icon symbolic for one of his ideas.
POPE FRANCIS
“I brought each of you an icon made in the monastery of Bose. It is a copy you can take home. It's on the theme of dialogue between the old and the young. I care deeply about this topic, and I think it’s a challenge for our time.”
After five hours and a half, the papal plane finally landed in Abu Dhabi. The pope was welcomed by the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
“The peace of the Lord be with you.”
Afterward, some children in traditional garb greeted the pope in Spanish; as well as some of the country's authorities.
Pope Francis was also welcomed by his friend the Grand Imam of al-Azhar. He is one of organizers for the pope's trip.
The pope even received a traditional dance performance as he left the airport; and cordially greeted again the prince.
“Thank you brother.”
