Pope to Chaldean Church: Never be on side of those who wield weapons

As they visit Rome for the election of their new Patriarch, members of the Chaldean Church of Baghdad met with Pope Leo XIV in the Apostolic Palace on Friday morning.

The Holy Father expressed his pleasure at being present with them during this “time of precious ecclesial discernment," and he extended his greeting to the clergy, religious men and women, seminarians, and the entire faith community of the Chaldean Church around the world.

Pope Leo acknowledged the spiritual solidarity of people globally in “this moment, participating intensely through prayer.”

In his greeting to the Chaldean Church, the Pope recognized the apostolic roots of the Chaldean Church, which represents “an ancient and fruitful tradition, which is intimately linked to the places of salvation’s origin."

It is a historic tradition that brought the Gospel message beyond the borders of the Roman Empire and around the globe.

He highlighted their role as guardians of a living memory that has been passed down throughout the centuries.

“Your history is glorious,” the Holy Father noted. But it has not been an easy road. There have been “wars, persecutions, and tribulations that have affected your communities and scattered many faithful throughout the world.”

Yet, these trials have shone the light of the witnesses of faith in different moments of history.