Vatican prelate, in Los Angeles, voices solidarity with Christians of Iraq, Syria

July 21, 2014

The prefect of the Vatican Congregation for the Eastern Churches voiced concern for the suffering of Christians in Iraq and Syria, as he celebrated Mass a the Maronite Catholic cathedral in Los Angeles on July 20.

Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, who was joining the Maronite community to celebrate the feast of the Lebanese Saints Charbel and Elias, read aloud the appeal issued by Pope Francis for the Christians suffering persecution under the Islamic regime emerging in Syria and northern Iraq, and particularly in the cities of Mosul and Aleppo. Cardinal Sandri also mentioned the civilians of Gaza. "We tell them that their tears are ours," the cardinal said.

 

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Further information:

• Cardinal Sandri to the Oriental Christians: Your Tears and Hopes Are Ours (VIS)