AFRICA/LIBYA -"Last night a violent bombing near the church devastated the serenity of innocent citizens, how can the UN authorize this?" complains Bishop Martinelli

Tripoli (Agenzia Fides) - "I do not know what objective was hit near the church, but it was a terrible bombing" said Archbishop Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli to Fides. "We were awakened at twelve thirty at night by a terrifying explosion. The bombing was very near, maybe a couple of miles, even though I do not have a clear idea of what was hit”, says Bishop Martinelli. "Nearby there are homes, with families with children. People poured into the streets in panic. Bombings are targeted, but they still disrupt the lives of innocent civilians. It is crazy to think of bombing a city without producing consequences on civilians, it destroys the serenity of the people. Can the UN do such a thing?” asked the Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli. Archbishop Martinelli regrets for being unable to leave his office in these difficult times: "I wanted to come to Rome for the beatification of Pope John Paul II, who did so much for Libya, but unfortunately I cannot. We will also offer this sacrifice to the Lord”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 04/28/2011)