Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – On the occasion of the Assembly of the Reunion Of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches (ROACO), which was held yesterday, his holiness Benedict XVI reaffirmed his closeness "to the sufferings of our brothers and sisters in Syria, especially innocent children and the defenseless." In his speech the Pope said: "May our prayer, our commitment and our active brotherhood in Christ, as an oil of consolation, help them not lose sight of the light of hope in this moment of darkness, and obtain from God wisdom of heart for all in positions of responsibility, so that bloodshed and violence, that only bring pain and death, may cease and give way to reconciliation, harmony and peace. Every effort should be made, including by the international community, to bring Syria out of the present situation of violence and crisis, which has already lasted a long time and risks becoming a wider conflict that would have highly negative consequences for the country and the whole region. I also issue an urgent and heartfelt appeal, in view of the extreme need of the population, that the necessary humanitarian assistance be guaranteed, and extended to the many persons who have been forced to leave their homes, some of them becoming refugees in neighboring countries: the precious gift of human life must always be defended."
In his speech, the Pope highlighted low the East, "the motherland of ancient Christian traditions," is especially affected by this process, which engenders uncertainty and instability "that also has an impact on the Church and in the ecumenical and interreligious fields. These factors that to reopen the endemic wounds of history and they have a damaging effect on dialogue and peaceful cohabitation among peoples, as well as the authentic respect for human rights, especially the right to personal and community religious freedom. This right should be guaranteed in its public profession, not only in terms of worship, but also in relation to the pastoral, educational, and social activities that are indispensable for its effective exercise. "The Holy Father finally urged those present to always be "eloquent signs of the charity that flows from the heart of Christ and presents the Church to the world in her true mission and identity by placing her at the service of God, who is Love", and may the intercession of the Most Holy Mother of God accompany the " the Eastern Churches in their homeland and in the diaspora ... May she also watch over the coming journey which - God willing - I will make to Lebanon for the solemn closing of the Special Assembly for the Middle East of the Synod of Bishops ". (SL) (Agenzia Fides 22/6/2012)
