Catholic Church hopes for papal visit to Azerbaijan, timing still unclear

The possibility of a papal visit to Azerbaijan is under discussion, said Apostolic Prefect of the Catholic Church in the country, Bishop Vladimir Fekete.

Bishop Fekete emphasized that while a visit by Pope Leo XIV is being considered, it is unlikely to occur next year, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

“I doubt that the visit could take place as early as next year. The Pope has received numerous invitations, and he undertakes only five to six foreign trips annually… If the visit happens in the second or third year, it would already be a major achievement,” Fekete explained.

When asked about the potential for the Pope to attend the inauguration of the St. John Paul II Catholic Church, which is planned for construction in Baku, he highlighted that such a visit would be a significant blessing for the local faithful.

“If the Pope comes for the opening of the church, it would be a great gift for us, the faithful. Ultimately, though, it depends on his schedule,” he added.

By Vafa Guliyeva