VATICAN CITY, JUNE 20, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI spoke out today against the situation of violence in Nigeria, where the militant Islamist group Boko Haram continues to target Christians. Three Christian churches were bombed last Sunday.
The Pope spoke of the situation at the end of the general audience, saying he is following the news with «deep concern,» as «acts of terrorism directed especially against Christian faithful continue.»
In Sunday’s attack, at least 50 were killed, according to the local Red Cross. The bombs were the latest in a string of attacks against Christian churches.
«As I offer prayer for the victims and for all those who are suffering, I appeal to those responsible for the violence to cease immediately the bloodshed of so may innocent people,» the Holy Father said. «It is my hope, moreover, that all the social components of Nigerian society collaborate fully in order not to pursue the path of revenge, and that all citizens work together for the building up of a peaceful and reconciled society, in which the right to freely profess one’s faith is fully protected.»
The bombings were followed by retaliatory violence, also causing several deaths.
