Pope urges prayers, aid for the 'great tribulation' of Syria
21 June, 2013 - Calling the Syrian conflict "a great tribulation," Pope Francis said
tensions throughout the Middle East must give way to dialogue and reconciliation.
"Once again, from the depths of my heart, I appeal to leaders of nations and international
organizations, to believers of every religion and to all men and women of good will
to put an end to the suffering, all the violence and every form of religious, cultural
and social discrimination," the Pope said. "Conflict that sows death must give way
to encounter and reconciliation, which bring life," the Pope said on Thursday during
a meeting with two dozen Catholic charitable and funding agencies that assist the
Eastern Catholic churches and Catholics throughout the Middle East. The agencies grouped
under the “Reunion of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches”, known by its Italian
acronym ROACO, met June 18-20 focussing on Egypt, Iraq, Syria and the Holy Land.
Citing the words of the Book of Revelation, the pope prayed for those suffering through
a "great tribulation. And this truly is a great tribulation." Pope Francis said also
Catholics must be grateful to their brothers and sisters in the Middle East and members
of the Eastern Catholic churches who have kept their faith despite suffering and even
persecution. To all those who are suffering, the Pope urged, “Never lose hope! The
church is alongside you, accompanies you and supports you." Pope Francis also thanked
the funding agencies who assist others with a charity that flows from the love of
God. (Source: CNS)