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Syrian refugee Pope took to Rome 'overwhelmed'

A Syrian refugee taken to Rome by the Pope and offered the chance to start a new life with her family in Italy has said she is "overwhelmed" by the Pontiff's kindness.

In a symbolic gesture, the Pope finished his tour of the Greek island of Lesbos on Saturday by taking three Syrian families with him back to the Vatican.

The 12 refugees, including six children, accompanied the Pontiff on his return journey arriving at the Sant'Egidio community centre on Saturday night where they began their new life.

During his trip he vowed solidarity with refugees, telling them they were "not alone", while he also laid memorials for those who have died at sea crossing to Europe.

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Pope given drawings by young refugee children

Pope Francis was presented with drawings from young refugee children in Lesbos on Saturday.

The Pope accepted drawings which appeared to depict boats and sea, while others show barbed wire and a camp.

One drawing showed barbed wire and a camp Credit: Reuters

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