As SAT-7 ARABIC broadcast live coverage of Pope Francis’ visit to Iraq and his meetings with authorities and religious figures, viewers watching shared messages of hope and gratitude on social media.

Today, SAT-7 is broadcasting live the first ever pontifical visit to Iraq 5-8 March. The historic visit is expected to bring hope and consolation to many people in war-torn Iraq and across the diaspora.

“Following the several attacks on the Christian community in Egypt over the past few months, this visit is very important to all Egyptians,” says George Makeen, Program Director of SAT-7’s Arabic Channels.