Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - “I heard with deep sadness the tragic news of the recent killings of some Christians in the city of Mosul and I followed with much concern the other episodes of violence, perpetrated in the martyred land of Iraq, which have harmed defenseless persons of various religious affiliations.” These were the words of the Holy Father Benedict XVI after the recitation of the Angelus on Sunday, February 28, from the window of his Apostolic Palace. The Pope continued: “In these days of intense recollection I often prayed for all the victims of those attacks and today I would like to join myself spiritually in prayer for peace and the restoration of security promoted by the council of bishops at Nineveh. I am affectionately near to the Christians communities of the whole country. Do not weary of being a ferment for good for the homeland to which, for centuries, you have rightfully belonged! In the delicate political phase that Iraq is passing through I call upon the civil authorities that they do everything possible to restore security to the population and, especially to the most vulnerable religious minorities. It is my wish that they do not given in to the temptation to allow the temporary and special interests prevail over the safety and the fundamental rights of every citizen. Finally, as I greet the Iraqis present here in the piazza, I exhort the international community to do its best to give the Iraqis a future of reconciliation and justice, while I ask with confidence from God almighty the precious gift of peace.”
Shortly afterwards, the Pope called for international solidarity in response to the situation in Chile, with these words: “My thought goes out also to Chile and the populations affected by the earthquake, which caused numerous losses of human life and much damage. I pray for the victims and am spiritually near to the persons tried by so grave a calamity; for them I implore from God relief from suffering and courage in these adversities. I am certain that they will not lack the solidarity of many, especially of ecclesial organizations.”
In greeting the Polish pilgrims gathered, Benedict XVI recalled the celebration of the day for support of the missions: “Today, in Poland you celebrate 'Ad Gentes' Sunday, supporting the missionary work of the Church with your prayers, fasting and offerings. The theme 'The missions are a question of love' is for you a source of encouragement to good works and generosity of heart. I cordially bless the missionaries and all those who support their faithful service."
In his address prior to the recitation of the Angelus, the Holy Father highlighted that the liturgy of the Second Sunday of Lent is characterized by the account of the Transfiguration. In the Gospel of Saint Luke, this extraordinary event is “an encouragement in following Jesus,” as “the Transfiguration reminds us that the joys sown by God in our life are not the destination, but they are lights that he gives us on the earthly pilgrimage, so that "only Jesus" is our Law and his Word the criterion that guides our existence.” Thus, the Pope invited everyone this Lent to “meditate assiduously on the Gospel.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 1/03/2010)
