Originally published at National Catholic Register
In a new book titled “Spera, ” set to be released on Jan. 14, 2025, the Holy Father recounts his personal story, including details of the planned attack during his trip.
Pope Francis has revealed that he narrowly escaped two attempts on his life during his visit to Iraq in March 2021 in the city of Mosul.
In a new book titled “Spera” (translated as “Hope”), set to be released on Jan. 14, 2025, the Holy Father recounts his personal story, including details of the planned attack during his trip.
Advised Not to Go
According to Corriere della Sera, the Italian newspaper that shared excerpts from the book, the pontiff stated that most people had advised him against undertaking the apostolic visit to a land ravaged by jihadism and extremist violence. Those challenges were compounded by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the extremely high security risks.
“But I wanted to go at all costs. I felt I had to do it,” Francis said. He said that he felt an obligation to visit and meet “our forefather Abraham,” from whom Jews, Christians, and Muslims all trace their lineage.
The Holy Father also stressed that he did not want to disappoint
