Benedict XVI calls for peace in Libya and Ivory Coast



April 6, 2011. (Romereports.com) During the general audience, Benedict XVI called for peace in Libya and the Ivory Coast saying that all channels of peaceful dialogue should be opened to avoid more deaths.

Benedict XVI
“Violence and hate is always a lost cause! I therefore make a renewed and heartfelt appeal to all parties to the cause to initiate a process of peacemaking and dialogue, and to avoid further bloodshed.”

The Pope expressed his hopes for Cardinal Peter Turkson, whom he appointed as papal envoy to Ivory Coast, for his safe entry to the country in order to help rebuild the peace.

Benedict XVI
“I follow with great apprehension the dramatic events that the populations of the Ivory Coast and Libya are experiencing in these days. Furthermore, I hope that Cardinal Turkson, whom I have commissioned to visit the Ivory Coast to demonstrate my solidarity, may soon be able to enter the country.”

The Pope said he is praying for the victims and expressed his closeness to all those who are suffering from the consequences of the violence.

Benedict XVI dedicated his catechesis of the general audience to St. Therese de Lisieux, a Carmelite nun who died at just 23 years old and was proclaimed patroness of the missions by Pope Pius XI and a Doctor of the Church by John Paul II in 1997.

Benedict XVI noted that this saint has a crucial importance in the history of the Church.

Benedict XVI
“Her name in religion – Sister Theresa of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face – expresses the heart of her spirituality, centred on the contemplation of God’s love revealed in the mysteries of the Incarnation and Redemption.”

The Pope explained how St. Therese of Lisieux fell ill and offered all her suffering as salvation for the souls of the world. He also said that this saint can serve as an example to all of us.

Benedict XVI
“Theresa found her vocation to be 'love in the heart of the Church'. May her example and prayers help us to follow 'the little way of trust and love' in spiritual childhood, abandoning ourselves completely to the love of God and the good of souls.”


Among the nearly 10,000 attendees filling St. Peter's square for the general audience, several bands and choirs performed songs dedicated to the pope.
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