VATICAN CITY, DEC. 5, 2010 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is asking all people of goodwill to pray the Advent season for those who are experiencing situations of violence, intolerance and suffering.
The Pope made this appeal today after praying the midday Angelus with those gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
«In this Advent season in which we are called to nourish our expectation of the Lord and to welcome him in our midst,» the Pontiff said, «I invite you to pray for all the situations of violence, of intolerance, of suffering that there are in the world, so that the coming of Jesus brings consolation, reconciliation and peace.»
He continued: «I think of the many difficult situations such as the continuing attacks in Iraq against Christians and Muslims, of the conflicts in Egypt in which there have been deaths and injuries, of the victims of traffickers and criminals such as the drama of the Eritrean hostages and the hostages of other nationalities in the desert of Sinai.»
«The respect for the rights of all is the presupposition of civil coexistence, the Holy Father added. «Our prayer to the Lord and our solidarity can bring hope to those who are suffering.»
