Pope Leo XIV continues his visit to Turkey: He visited the French Poorhouse

Pope Leo XIV, the spiritual leader of the Catholic world, continues his first overseas visit to Turkey. Arriving in Istanbul on the second day of his visit, the Pope met with the elderly residing at the French Poorhouse. During his visit to the poorhouse, the Pope addressed the elderly living there and drew attention to the decline in respect for the elderly in society.

HIS FIRST STOP WAS ANITKABIR

The first day of the Pope's visit to Turkey began with a visit to Anıtkabir in Ankara. Following a meeting with President Erdoğan at the Presidential Palace, the Pope held a joint press conference after their bilateral talks. The Pope, who arrived in Istanbul in the evening, continued his program at a rapid pace.

VISIT TO THE FRENCH POORHOUSE

Pope Leo XIV continued his contacts in Istanbul at the French Poorhouse. Meeting with the elderly there, the Pope was welcomed by the Little Sisters of the Poor congregation. The Mother Superior of the congregation stated that they welcomed the Pope with “great joy and gratitude,” expressing that the visit was very meaningful for both the elderly residing there and the members of the congregation. In his speech, the Pope stated that brotherhood lies at the foundation of Christian love and that serving others is possible by learning to be with them.

Addressing the fact that respect for the elderly is gradually weakening, especially in modern societies, the Pope said, "In many social contexts where productivity and material success are prioritized, the respect shown to the elderly is disappearing." Emphasizing that the elderly are the wisdom and heritage of a people, the Pope recalled the words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, "The elderly are a treasure for their grandchildren and for society," and reiterated this important message.

Pope Leo XIV emphasized that the care of the elderly at the French Poorhouse is not only a physical necessity but also “an act that requires great patience and prayer.” In the messages he delivered there, the Pope expressed his gratitude, stating that the service the institution provides not only to the elderly but to all those in need holds great value.

The Pope specifically stated that he was inspired by the name of the Little Sisters of the Poor congregation, referring to one of the foundations of Christian teachings. "The Lord has called you not only to help the poor but to be their sisters," the Pope said, giving strong support to the congregation's mission with these words.

“ECUMENICAL PRAYER” CEREMONY EXPECTED IN IZNIK

One of the most important moments of the Pope's visit to Turkey will be the “Ecumenical prayer” ceremony to take place at the Saint Neophytos Basilica (Bursa Iznik Underwater Basilica) in Iznik.