Pope appeals for peace in DR Congo

Pope Benedict

Pope Benedict appealed for peace in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday. Speaking to pilgrims and tourists gathered to pray the Angelus with him at the Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo, the Holy Father deplored the violence that flared again recently in the DRC between a rebel group and irregular militia forces. This latest round of fighting has driven thousands of people from their homes since the middle of September.

Pope Benedict said: "With affection and concern, I follow the developments in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. which have become the object of a high-level meeting at the United Nations. I am particularly close to the refugees, to the women and children, who because of persistent armed clashes, undergo suffering, violence and profound hardship. I pray to God: that there be found peaceful means of dialogue and for the protection of innocents; that peace based on justice return as swiftly as possible; for the restoration of fraternal coexistence within that sorely tried population, and throughout the entire region."

Source: VIS