VATICAN - Benedict XVI seeks prayers for his trip to Africa

Vatican City (Fides Service) - From November 18 to 20, the Holy Father Benedict XVI will visit Benin, for the signing and publication of the post-synodal apostolic Exhortation of the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops, celebrated in Rome on October 2009. After the Angelus on Sunday, November 13, speaking to the French-speaking pilgrims, the Pope asked everyone for prayers for both this trip "and for the people of the beloved African continent". The Holy Father cited the parable of the talents, proclaimed in the liturgy of the day on which he had previously paused. These are his words: "Dear French-speaking pilgrims, the Lord invites us today to recognize the gifts that he has given us. He entrusts the responsibility of each to make them fruitful so that they are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. These words of Christ guided the works of the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops. I hope to repeat them all as I prepare to go to Benin to reconfirm faith and hope of the Christians in Africa and adjacent islands. I ask for your prayers for this trip and the loved people of the African continent, especially those who suffer insecurity and violence. May Our Lady of Africa accompany and support the efforts of all the people who work for reconciliation, justice and peace".(SL) (Agenzia Fides 14/11/2011)