Pope, Bartholomeos visit Greek island to draw world's attention at migrant crisis

Pope Francis and Fener Rum Patriarch Dimitri Bartholomeos paid a visit to the Greek island of Lesbos, which became the frontline of Europe's migrant crisis that claimed hundreds of lives in the past year, where migrants begged for the religious leaders for help.

At a sprawling fenced complex on the Aegean island of Lesbos, adults and children broke down in tears, pleading for help after their onward journey to Europe was cut short by an EU decision to seal off a migrant route used by a million people fleeing conflict since early 2015.

Pope Francis, leader of the world's 1.2 billion Roman Catholics, shook hands with hundreds of people as hundreds more were penned behind metal barriers at the Moria camp, which holds some 3,000 people. 
"Freedom, freedom," migrants chanted as the pope walked through the hillside facility in scorching sun. Some women ululated. 

"I want to tell you, you are not alone," Francis said in a scripted speech. "... As people of faith, we wish to join our voices to speak out on your behalf. Do not lose hope!" he said, flanked by Patriarch Bartholomeos and Greek Archbishop Ieronymos. Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras also accompanied the religious leaders. 
Bartholomeos described the visit as "very important," adding that as religious leaders they had jointly prayed for peace to prevail once again in the Middle East and around the world. He said they had also tried to console the sorrows of the refugees in the camp. 

"God willing, after our meeting, talks and prayers today, the political leaders of the world, whose opportunities are great and big, will reach a decision and take decisive steps in solving this very important problem. Thus, peace and tranquility will prevail once again in our region,"...