Pope appeals for calm in Venezuela

February 26, 2014

At the conclusion of his February 26 general audience, Pope Francis appealed for peace in Venezuela amid growing civil unrest there.

“I sincerely hope that violence and hostility will cease as soon as possible, and that the whole Venezuelan people, beginning with political leaders and institutions, will endeavor to promote reconciliation through mutual forgiveness and a sincere dialogue, respectful of truth and justice, that is capable of dealing with concrete issues for the common good,” the Pope said.

He added, “As I assure you of my constant prayer, especially for those who lost their lives in the fighting and for their families, I invite all believers to lift up prayers to God, through the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Coromoto, so that the country might quickly find peace and harmony.”

 

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Further information:

• Pope Francis appeals for peace in Venezuela (Vatican Radio)
• Venezuelan opposition leader sits out dialogue (AP)