Pope in new appeal for "battered Syria" and for Ecuador
Before the Angelus, Pope Francis recalls the exodus of the "populations of the northeast" of Syria, among which "there are also many Christian families". He pleads with "the international community to" sincerely commit to the path of dialogue to seek effective solutions ". Concern and pain for the clashes, the dead and wounded in Latin American country.
Vatican City (AsiaNews) - A new "appeal to engage sincerely in the path of dialogue to seek effective solutions" for "the beloved and tormented Syria" was launched by Pope Francis at the canonization Mass celebrated this morning in St. Peter's Square.
Speaking at the conclusion of the celebration, before the Angelus prayer, Francis, referring to the invasion and attacks of the Turkish army against the Kurdish populations of Syria, spoke of the "dramatic news on the fate of the populations of the north-east of the country, forced to abandon their homes because of military operations: among these populations there are also many Christian families. To all the actors involved and to the international community, please, I renew my appeal to commit sincerely on the path of dialogue to seek effective solutions ".
Immediately afterwards, the pontiff expressed concern about what is happening in Ecuador, along with the country's bishops and all the members of the Panamanian Synod, which is underway this month in the Vatican. A state of emergency has been declared in the country: due to some austerity policies introduced by President Lenin Moreno, there are demonstrations, protests and clashes with the police. "I follow with concern - he said - what is happening in the last few weeks in that country. I entrust it to prayer and the intercession of the new saints, and I join in the pain for the dead and the wounded. I encourage you to seek social peace, with particular attention to the most vulnerable populations and human rights".
Before the Marian prayer, Francis also greeted all those present at the canonization Mass, including Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic, and the Prince of Wales. "In fact - the Pope added - with their evangelical witness, these saints have favored spiritual and social growth in their respective nations".
Francis dedicated "a special thought" to the "delegates of the Anglican Communion, with deep gratitude for their presence", including the new bishop of the Anglican community of Rome.
.png)
