While “in numerous parts of the world one feels a terrible atmosphere of tension,” according to Pope Francis’ words, who appealed for prayer for peace, after the Angelus on Sunday, January 5, in keeping with his prayer intention for the whole month of January, L’Oeuvre d’Orient appeals for prayer and support of the Pope’s action in favor of peace and that of the Patriarch of the Chaldeans, Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, in residence at Baghdad.
In a message, the Patriarch stresses that the country is in a “state of shock.” It is sad “that our country becomes a terrain of liquidation of accounts, rather than a sovereign home, capable of protecting its land, its richness and its citizens.”
The Patriarch appealed for wisdom. “In face of this delicate and dangerous situation, we invite all parties concerned to try moderation <and> wisdom, <and> to act in a reasonable manner and thus avoid hurt to the country.”
“We raise our prayers to God that life may take up again its course, so that Iraq and its children are in peace, security and well-being,” he prayed.