Pope recalls outbreak of World War II, rues persecution of Iraqi Christians
September 04, 2014
At the conclusion of his September 3 general audience, Pope Francis recalled the 75th anniversary of the beginning of World War II.
He prayed for “those who lost their lives for their love of country and of brothers” and added, “We invoke the gift of peace for all the nations of Europe and the world, through the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace.”
The Pope also lamented the persecution of Christians in Iraq. He told “these last of you, the defenseless and persecuted, that you are in the heart of the Church; the Church suffers with you and is proud of you; you are her strength and the concrete and authentic witness of her message of salvation, of forgiveness and love. I embrace all of you, all of you. May the Lord bless you and protect you!”
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Further information:
- Pope Francis recalls outbreak of WWII, prays for peace in Europe, world (Vatican Radio)
- Pope Francis: the mother Church embraces persecuted Iraqis (Vatican Radio)
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