21.04.2025 16:12
The death of Pope Francis has caused deep sorrow in the İznik district of Bursa. Following the Pope's passing, who was expected to visit İznik on May 21, 2025, local shopkeepers distributed lokma (a type of sweet pastry) at various locations.
The Vatican announced that Pope Francis, who had been suffering from health issues, passed away at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell stated in a live broadcast that the spiritual leader of Catholics, Pope Francis, died at the Casa Santa Marta residence.
THE SUDDEN DEATH SHOCKED İZNİK
The sudden death of the Pope, who was expected to arrive in İznik on May 21, shocked everyone in İznik. While the Ministry of Tourism was working hard at the Basilica that the Pope was to visit, the news of his death brought great sadness to the people of İznik. Shopkeepers prepared lokma in various locations for the Pope.
"THE POPE'S VISIT WOULD HAVE BEEN GREAT FOR THE ECONOMY"
Citizens and shopkeepers said, "The Pope's visit would have been great for İznik's economy. We do not know what the process will be. It would have been very impactful in terms of tourism. The program for the upcoming days will be announced."
MAYOR USTA: WE HAVE COMPLETED ALL OUR PREPARATIONS
İznik Mayor Kağan Mehmet Usta also stated, "Today has been a sad day for Christians. We learned this with sorrow. Pope Francis was supposed to visit İznik in May due to the 1700th anniversary of the First Council in 2025. The cardinal who last visited us had conveyed that the Pope wanted to come to İznik only in 2025. I extend my condolences to all Christians and Catholics from here. Our work continues. In the coming days, what will be done regarding this issue will be announced. İznik is a very important center where the First Council was held in 325. The Christian world has included İznik in the pilgrimage route. People are curious about İznik in this regard. We have completed all our preparations. We are preparing places where they will have a good time. We are attracting the attention of nearly 3 billion Christians as a district," he expressed.