Pope appeals for prayers for missing children, victims of attacks in Syria

May 25, 2016

At the conclusion of his May 25 general audience, Pope Francis recalled that the date is commemorated as International Missing Children’s Day.

Inviting everyone to “prayer, that each of them might be restored to the affection of their loved ones,” Pope Francis expressed hope that “civil and religious authorities might stir consciences and raise awareness, in order to avoid indifference in the face of children on their own, exploited children, and children far from their families and their social context, children who cannot grow up peacefully or look with hope to the future.”

Recalling recent terrorist attacks in Syria, the Pope also said, “I exhort everyone to pray to the merciful Father, to pray to the Madonna, that [God] might give eternal rest to the victims, and consolation to their families, and might convert the hearts of those who sow death and destruction.” He then led the crowds in St. Peter’s Square in the recitation of the Hail Mary.

 

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Further information:

• L’Udienza Generale (Holy See Press Office)
• Pope prays for victims of terrorist attacks in Syria (Vatican Radio)