Pope Francis calls for "prayer and dialogue" in Brazil

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis called for “prayer and dialogue” in Brazil as a political crisis threatens to unseat President Dilma Rousseff.

Addressing Portuguese-speaking pilgrims during his General Audience, Pope Francis turned his thoughts to Brazil.

 “In these days, as we prepare for the feast of Pentecost, I ask the Lord to abundantly pour out the gifts of His Spirit, so that the country, in these moments of difficulty, proceeds on the path of harmony and peace, with the help of prayer and dialogue” – Pope Francis said – “May the closeness of Our Lady of Aparecida, who as a good mother will never abandons her children, both defend and guide you on this journey.”

President Rousseff is facing impeachment proceedings after being accused of hiding the public deficit during her 2014 re-election campaign. She denies the charges.