Nuncio calls for prayer, fasting for peace in Syria
May 28, 2012
Amid conflicting reports about the killing of more than 100 Syrians in Houla, the apostolic nuncio to Syria called upon Christians and Muslims alike to pray and fast for peace.
While most press coverage attributed responsibility for the Houla massacre to the Assad regime, Syrian sources told the Fides news agency that Islamist terrorists used civilians as human shields .
“Reports of massacres follow, but the responsible are not certain,” said Father Romualdo Fernandez, a Franciscan in Damascus. “There is pessimism because no one knows what the future holds. There are criticisms to the regime, but also to the rebels of the opposition. As Christians we share the sufferings of the people, tried by the conflict. We work for peace and justice, without adhering to any political faction.”
“This massacre is not the only one; let’s hope it is the last,” added Archbishop Mario Zenari, the nuncio.” We demand an end to such atrocities. All believers, Christians and Muslims today are called to discover the weapons of prayer and fasting, to rekindle the hope of a peaceful future in Syria.”
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Further information:
- Instability and violence, appeal of the Apostolic Nuncio: "Enough with atrocities" (Fides)
- Syria denies Houla killings, UN condemns attack (AP)
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