(Vatican Radio) The Archbishop of Westminster and Cardinal-designate Vincent Nichols
has called for all people of good will to join in prayers for peace in Syria and for
the success of the planned talks this week between all those involved in the conflict.
The archbishop, who is president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and
Wales, said he adds his voice to those of many others in urging people of faith to
pray for the success of the Geneva II conference, due to begin on Wednesday.
Listen to our report:
Archbishop
Nichols said Pope Francis and the bishops of Syria “have all pleaded for peace between
the warring factions in that troubled land in which four out of every ten people have
now fled their homes”. Today, he said, “we pray that this vale of tears may be comforted
with an end to fighting. We pray that its children, banished from a normal life, and
those many people now in exile, may be blessed by the mercy of God. We pray that those
attending the talks will focus all their efforts on creating peace and respect for
the dignity of every Syrian so that families may again flourish within their own land.
We pray that aid may reach those in such desperate need”.
In a statement published
on Monday, the archbishop asks all people of good will to join in this prayer, even
those, he said, “who do not normally raise their minds and hearts to God. Please,
in a spare moment, whisper a prayer for peace for Syria.” He added that “God knows
our inmost hearts and will surely heed our prayers and give grace to those who take
part in these crucial negotiations.”