Libya prelate asks Muslim organizations to protect churches

February 28, 2011

Amid continued unrest in Libya, Bishop Giovanni Martinelli of Tripoli has appealed to the Red Crescent and other Muslim organizations to protect Catholic churches and other institutions. Bishop Giovanni Martinelli, a Franciscan, has served as apostolic vicar of Tripoli since 1985.

1.8% of the nation’s 6.7 million people are Catholic, according to Vatican statistics; the vast majority of Catholics are foreign workers.

 

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Further information:

• Libyan bishop appeals to Muslims for protection (Ekklesia)