Pope Francis Prays in Mosque with Islamic Cleric in Instanbul

According to reports by the The Guardian.Catholic Pope Francis prayed yesterday Saturday alongside a senior Islamic cleric in Istanbul’s blue mosque.This prayer in a Mosque according to the Vatican City spokesperson,he described it as a gesture of inter-religious harmony and a joint “moment of silent adoration” of God.Pope Francis took off his shoes as he entered the huge mosque before bowing his head in prayer for several minutes, facing Mecca and standing next to Istanbul’s Grand Mufti Rahmi Yaran.If we can go back memory lane a similar act by his predecessor Pope Benedict in 2006 drew criticism from stunch Catholics and Muslims.
Garbis Atmaca, 72, an Armenian jeweller from Istanbul, said he had high hopes for the pope’s visit. “It is very good that he came,”“His visit will have a good impact on the Islamic world. It will help foster understanding and peace.”