Sudanese woman, Meriam Ibrahim, who flew into Italy this morning in company of her husband Daniel Wani and their two children Martin and Maya, met with Pope Francis at Casa Santa Martath inside the Vatican.

According to the head of the Vatican Press Office, Father Federico Lombardi, the meeting took place in a ‘very serene & affectionate’ environment, and Pope Francis thanked Meriam for her ‘courageous witness to perseverance in the Faith.’

Fr. Lombardi said Meriam thanked the Pope for his prayers, saying they provided great support and encouragement to her during her ordeal.