Samya Kullab, Associated Press, Author at America Magazine

Pope Francis is flanked by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi upon his arrival at Baghdad's international airport, Iraq, Friday, March 5, 2021. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Francis arrives in Iraq to rally Christians despite pandemic

by Nicole Winfield - Associated Press and Samya Kullab, Associated Press March 5, 2021

Francis’ plane touched down at Baghdad’s airport just before 2 p.m. local time. Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi on hand to greet him.

Faith, News

‘Not a good idea:’ Infectious disease experts are worried about Pope Francis’ trip to Iraq

by Nicole Winfield - Associated Press and Samya Kullab, Associated Press March 1, 2021

Infectious disease experts are expressing concern about Pope Francis’ upcoming trip to Iraq, given a sharp rise in coronavirus infections there, a fragile health care system and the unavoidable likelihood that Iraqis will crowd to see him.

Faith, News

Pope Francis moves ahead with plans to meet Shiite leader in Iraq

by Nicole Winfield - Associated Press and Samya Kullab, Associated Press February 8, 2021

The Vatican on Monday released the itinerary of Francis’ March 5-8 visit to Iraq, his first foreign trip since being grounded for 16 months due to the coronavirus pandemic.