Vatican City (AsiaNews) –Courage and fortitude are needed "to say no to hatred and revenge” and to make concrete “gestures of peace. In the current context of the Middle East it is more crucial than ever for peace in the Holy Land: For God and the good of humanity", said Pope Francis before the customary Angelus prayer recited today from the raised dais in front of St. Peter's Basilica immediately after the Mass during which the Pope canonized four blessed.
The Pope spoke of how he is following "with great concern the situation of tension and violence that afflicts the Holy Land. there is need of great courage and great strength of soul in order to say ‘No’ to hatred and vengeance, and to carry out acts of peace. We pray to God to strengthen in all, governments and citizens, the courage to oppose violence and to take concrete steps towards calm. In the current context of the Middle East it is more crucial than ever for peace in the Holy Land: For God and the good of humanity. "
Francis then greeted "all you who have come to pay homage to the new Saints, especially the official delegations from Italy, Spain and France. I greet the faithful of the diocese of Lodi and Cremona, as well as the Daughters of the Oratory. May the example of St. Vincent Grossi support the commitment for the Christian education of the new generations. "
The Pope had greetings for "pilgrims from Spain, especially from Seville, and the Sisters of the Company of the Cross. The testimony of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception help us to live in solidarity and closeness with the most needy. "
Finally, "I greet the faithful from France, especially from Bayeux, Lisieux and Sées: To the intercession of the saints spouses Louis Martin and Maria Azelia Guérin, I entrust the joys, the hopes and difficulties of French households and around the world. I thank the cardinals, bishops, priests, consecrated persons, as well as families, church groups and associations. And now we turn with filial love to the Virgin Mary. "