VATICAN - At the Angelus Benedict XVI's invitation to pray “for all situations of violence, of intolerance, of suffering in the world”

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - After the Marian prayer of the Angelus, recited with the faithful and pilgrims gathered in St Peter's Square on Sunday, 5 December, the Holy Father Benedict XVI made the following appeal: “In this Season of Advent, in which we are called to nurture our expectation of the Lord and to welcome him among us, I invite you to pray for all situations of violence, of intolerance, of suffering in the world, that the coming of Jesus brings consolation, reconciliation and peace. I think of the many difficult situations, such as the continuous attacks that occur in Iraq against Christians and Muslims, the clashes in Egypt where there were deaths and injuries, the victims of traffickers and criminals, such as the hostage drama of Eritrea and other nationalities, in the Sinai desert. Respect for the rights of all is the prerequisite for peace cohabitation. Our prayer to the Lord and our solidarity can bring hope to those who are suffering.” In his words before the prayer, the Holy Father dwelt on the figure of St John the Baptist, presented in the daily Gospel passage, and on his call to conversion in view of the imminent coming of the Messiah. The Pope emphasised that “in the Season of Advent, we too are called to hear God's voice, echoing in the wilderness of the world through Sacred Scripture, especially when they are preached with the power of the Holy Spirit. Faith, in fact, becomes stronger to the extent it is enlightened by the Word of God.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 06/12/2010)