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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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Syrian refugee families arrive in Rome

Three Syrian refugee families arrived in Rome this evening after Pope Francis brought them home with him following a tour of the Greek island of Lesbos.

The 12 refugees - including six children - smiled broadly as they were pictured getting out of cars at the Sant'Egidio Community centre after being randomly being selected after drawing lots to start a new life in Italy.

The Pope brought three families back to Italy with him after his visit to meet refugees on the Greek island of Lesbos Credit: APTN
Among those to arrive were six children and six adults Credit: APTN
Children were pictured holding up a 'thank you' banner as the families arrived Credit: APTN

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