Vatican City, 10 September 2014 (VIS) –
In his greetings in various languages following the catechesis of
today's general audience, the Pope addressed, among others, the
Arab-speaking faithful and in particular those from Syria and the
Middle East, to remind them that the Church, following the example of
her Master, excels in mercy: “she faces hatred with love,
vanquishes violence with forgiveness, and responds to weapons with
prayer”.
He added, “May the Lord reward your
faithfulness, inspire you with courage in the struggle against the
forces of evil, and open the eyes of those who have been blinded by
evil, so that they may soon see the light of truth and repent for the
mistakes they have made. May the Lord bless you and protect you
always”.
He also greeted the officers and
members of the Italian naval forces who participate in the operation
“Mare Nostrum”, assisting migrants and refugees who attempt to
cross the Mediterranean. “I give thanks for your admirable work in
the aid of so many of our brethren in search of hope”, he said.
Before the general audience in the
Vatican's Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father greeted a group of sick
people, mostly children, who were not able to attend the audience in
St. Peter's Square. He thanked them all for their visit and asked
them to pray for him. “I ask you to pray for me. Don't forget! Pray
so that I can continue my work. I will pray for all of you and for
the children. And so, together, let us pray to the Virgin to bless
us”, he exclaimed. After praying a Hail Mary with those present,
Francis wished them a good day and encouraged them to persevere with
hope.
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