A meeting facilitated by Monsignor Julian BARRIO,”

Monsignor Julian BARRIO, Archbishop and Rector of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, was the one who arranged the meeting between Mahir AKKAYA and His Holiness Pope Francis. He had spoken to the Holy Father about the donations that Mahir AKKAYA had made to religious figures at seven sanctuaries, an act of charity for which the Pope sincerely thanked him.

“First audience: Presentation of the artwork” “Jesus in the Sacred Heart”

Mahir AKKAYA was personally received by the highest religious dignitary, Pope Francis, to whom he presented a mosaic painting depicting “Jesus in the Sacred Heart.” To his knowledge, this was the first time that His Holiness had closely examined such an artwork. During the visit, the Pope warmly thanked him for the gifts already offered to archbishops and high religious officials. They then discussed Mahir AKKAYA’s patronage approach, with the Pope emphasizing the rarity of such donors and assuring him that his door would always be open.

Apologies for the confusion earlier! Here is the translation in English with the proper formatting:

He was also encouraged to keep the Vatican informed about the continuation of his commitment with other patrons. With these words, Mahir AKKAYA felt honored and proud of the outcome of his journey.

Second Audience: A Warm and Attentive Pope

During the second audience, His Holiness presented Mahir AKKAYA with a letter of thanks, expressing his deep gratitude. The painting “Jesus in the Sacred Heart” is now displayed in the prestigious Paul VI Audience Hall, which can accommodate up to 12,000 people. Mahir AKKAYA is probably the only one who has seen the Pope personally touch the artwork, with the Pope himself confiding that he found it of immeasurable beauty and adding humorously:

“This artwork is so beautiful that I would like to put it in my room.”

These words gave Mahir AKKAYA a sense of closeness and an indescribable inner joy.

Exceptional Blessing

His Holiness Pope Francis also blessed the artist Bahattin SAYGI and all of his 41 paintings, as well as Mahir AKKAYA and his ring. The ring is adorned with the face of Jesus Christ, surrounded by a crown of diamonds, and features Armenian crosses on the sides (Armenia being the first nation to officially adopt Christianity in 315 AD).

For Mahir AKKAYA, receiving the Pope’s blessing is an immense honor. This grace strengthens his faith and holds great sentimental value. He no longer wishes to part with it, especially since the ring had already been blessed by the highest religious authorities at sacred sites. This new blessing, from His Holiness himself, makes it even more precious in his eyes.

A Media-Driven Initiative

Local, national, and international media (print, television, radio, internet) have widely covered this exceptional initiative. The content of these articles is available below or in the “Press” section of the website.

Pope Francis’ letter of thanks is available on the website. If you would like to view it, please send your request to Mahir AKKAYA using the contact form.