Pope appeals for reconciliation and peace in Syria and Libya

(August 08, 2011) Pope Benedict XVI expressed “deep concern” for the violence in Syria and for Libya “where the use of weapons has not resolved the situation”. In his address during the Sunday Mid-day Angelus, the Pope appealed for reconciliation between the Syrian people and authorities and called on the international community to work with Tripoli to reach “a peace plan for the country through negotiations and a constructive dialogue.” Speaking to the faithful gathered in the courtyard of the Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo, the pope said at the end of the Angelus prayer that he has followed with deep concern the dramatic and rising number of violent incidents in Syria, which have caused many victims and a lot of suffering. He urged Catholic faithful to pray that the effort at reconciliation may prevail over division and rancour. The Pope also appealed to the authorities and people of Syria to re-establish peace as soon as possible and that the legitimate demands of the country’s people should be adequately met, respecting their dignity and to the benefit of regional stability. Extending his concern over Libya, where the use of weapons has not resolved the situation, the Holy Father urged international organisations and those with political and military responsibilities to search with conviction and resolve a peace plan for the country. Reflecting on Sunday’s Gospel which presents the miracle of the storm, Pope Benedict said that it is an incident of great significance for the Church. The sea symbolises today’s life and the instability of the visible world. The storm indicates the many troubles that oppress man. The boat, instead, represents the Church built on Christ and led by the Apostles. Jesus wants to educate the disciples to bear with courage the adversities of life, placing their trust in God. The Pontiff concluded saying that before we seek or invoke him; the Lord himself comes to us. He only waits for us to trust him completely.