The news, published on the Vatican's official web site, appeared to put an end to speculation about whether Pope Benedict XVI would pray at the Hagia Sophia, and event which many have noted could cause controversy throughout Turkey. The Pope's strictly touristic visit to the Hagia Sophia will take part in between two masses the Catholic leader is planning on attending with Christian communities in Istanbul, one at the Greek Orthodox Saint Andreas church, and one at the Armenian Church of the Apostles. During his visit, Pope Benedict XVI will be meeting with Greek Patriarch Bartholomeus, as well as with Mesrob II, the leader of the Armenian religious community in Turkey.