Pope appeals for release of "all those abducted in the Holy Land"
Pope Benedict expressed his concern for the situation the the Holy Land today. Speaking to pilgrims gathered in St Peter's Square, after praying the Angelus, the Pope said: "I am following events in the Holy Land with concern, and I pray that all those who have been abducted may soon be returned to their loved ones. "I appeal to Israeli and Palestinian leaders that, with the generous help of the international community, they may seek responsibly for that negotiated end to the conflict, which alone can ensure the peace to which their people aspire." Source: VIS