As Pope Francis heads to the Holy Land for the first time as pontiff, aboard the papal plane he tells reporters that while the trip will be challenging but also moving.
(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE FRANCIS, SAYING:
"It will be a very challenging trip, and also for you, for you a lot. For you that have to watch, write, think, do so many things. I thank you and I pray for you."
The Pope was asked how he felt in his heart about the trip.
(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE FRANCIS, SAYING:
"My heart is beating and trying to love."
His first stop is Jordan. He'll meet with King Abdullah and say a mass. He is also expected to meet with refugees from Syria and Iraq.
On Sunday morning he flies by helicopter to Bethlehem -- making a six hour visit to what the Vatican's official program calls 'The State of Palestine"-- terminology Israel rejects.
