MORIA, Greece: Pope Francis implored Europe on Saturday to respond to the migrant crisis on its shores “in a way that is worthy of our common humanity,” during an emotional and provocative trip to Greece.

The pope visited the island of Lesbos alongside the spiritual leader of the world’s Orthodox Christians and the head of the Church of Greece to thank Greece for its welcome and highlight the plight of refugees as the European Union implements a controversial plan to deport them back to Turkey.

Greek state television ERT reported that Francis would take 10 refugees — eight Syrians and two Afghans — back with him when he leaves. Asked about the report, the Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi told The Associated Press: “I have nothing to say at this time.”

Asked if he would have an update later, Lombardi said: “Each moment has its significance.”

The Vatican is already hosting two refugee families, so the gesture would be in keeping with Francis’ call for Europe to open its hearts and borders to those most in need.

Many refugees fell to their knees and wept at Francis’ feet as he and the two Orthodox leaders approached them at the Moria detention center. Others chanted “Freedom! Freedom!” as they passed by. Francis bent down as one young girl knelt at his feet sobbing uncontrollably. A woman told the pope that her husband was in Germany, but that she was stuck with her two sons in Lesbos.