MAY LIBERIA AND UGANDA'S FUTURE NOT BE DENIED

VATICAN CITY, JUL 2, 2003 (VIS) - At the end of the catechesis of today's general audience, the Holy Father referred to the grave situations in Liberia and Uganda and asked for everyone's commitment to help these African countries.

"I follow with deep sadness," he said, "the dramatic news coming from Liberia and the northern region of Uganda. I appeal to everyone to commit themselves so that these beloved African peoples may find peace and security once again, and so that they are not denied their future to which they have a right. In addition, I express my closeness to the local Churches, as their work and people have been seriously affected, and I encourage pastors and all the faithful to be strong and steadfast in hope. May Divine Mercy grant this through our insistent prayer!"

AG;APPEAL; LIBERIA; UGANDA;...;...;VIS;20030702;Word: 140;