Thousands Brave Rain to Hear Pope Francis’ Easter Message
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Photo by Baris Seckin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images(VATICAN CITY) — Pope Francis held Easter mass on Sunday in a rainy Vatican City where thousands from around the world gathered to hear his message.
The pope wished the 50,000 or so onlookers a Happy Easter, and after the mass, called for peace among the nations of the world — particularly noting some nations in turmoil in the Middle East and Africa. He named Syria, Iraq, Libya, South Sudan and Nigeria by name. He also echoed remarks he has made in the past in urging the world to do more in the face of the persecution of Christians.
Pope Francis did make special note of the Thursday attack at a college in Kenya that left nearly 150 students dead. Many of the students killed in the attack were Christian.
“We ask today the grace not to succumb to the pride which fuels violence and war, but to have the humble courage of pardon and peace,” Francis told the gathered crowd. “We ask for peace, above all, for beloved Syria and Iraq, that the roar of arms may cease and that peaceful relations may be restored among the various groups which make up those beloved countries. May the international community not stand by before the immense humanitarian tragedy unfolding in these countries and the drama of the numerous refugees.”
The pope also spoke about the agreement between Iran and the P5+1 in Lausanne, Switzerland last week. “In hope we entrust to the merciful Lord the framework recently agreed to in Lausanne, that it may be a definitive step toward a more secure and fraternal world.”
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