Vatican City, 7 February 2016 (VIS) –
Following today's Angelus prayer, Pope Francis reiterated his concern
regarding the tragic fate of civilian populations affected by the
heavy fighting in Syria and compelled to abandon their homelands to
escape the horrors of war. "I hope that, with generous
solidarity, the necessary help may be given to ensure their survival
and dignity, and I appeal to the international community to spare no
effort in urgently bringing the parties involved to the negotiating
table. Only a political solution to the conflict may guarantee a
future of reconciliation and peace for this beloved and afflicted
country, for which I urge you to pray".
After praying a Hail Mary for Syria
with the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Holy Father
mentioned that today in Italy is the Day for Life, on the theme
“Mercy makes life bloom.” "I join the Italian bishops in
wishing, on the part of various educational and social institutions,
for renewed commitment in favour of human life from conception to
natural end. Our society must be helped to heal from all attacks on
life, and to dare to change within, which is also shown through the
works of mercy".
"Tomorrow, we celebrate the Day of
Prayer and Reflection against Human Trafficking, which offers
everyone the opportunity to help today's new slaves break the heavy
chains of exploitation and to regain their freedom and dignity. I
think in particular of the many women and children, the many men. We
must make every effort to combat this crime, and this intolerable
shame".
Tomorrow, Monday, in the Far East and
in various parts of the world, millions of men and women celebrate
the Lunar New Year. The Pope conveyed his wish that all may
experience "serenity and peace within their families, the first
place where we encounter the values of love and brotherhood,
coexistence and sharing, attention and care for others. May the New
Year bring the fruits of compassion, mercy and solidarity".
Finally, the Pope greeted the priestly
community of the Mexican College of Rome, thanking them for their
commitment to accompany with prayer his upcoming apostolic trip to
Mexico and "the meeting that will take place in Havana with my
dear brother Kirill", he concluded.
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