Pope Francis: Christians are called to work to abolish death penalty

"All Christians and people of good will are called to work not only for the abolition of the death penalty," but also to improve conditions in prisons, out of respect for the human dignity of prisoners, Pope Francis told pilgrims in St Peter's Square after the Angelus on Sunday.

In particular, the Holy Father appealed "to the consciences of government leaders" that they might join the "international consensus for the abolition of the death penalty" - and spoke directly to Catholic leaders, asking them, as a "courageous and exemplary act," to not carry out any death sentences during the Holy Year of Mercy.

An international convention for the abolition of death penalty is set to take place in Rome on Monday. The convention, promoted by the Sant'Egidio Community, has for its title "For a world without the death penalty."

Pope Francis said: "I hope that this symposium can give a renewed impulse to efforts for the abolition of capital punishment."

He said growing opposition to the death penalty, even as an instrument of legitimate social defence, was a sign of hope. Modern society, he continued has the means of fighting crime without definitively taking from criminals the possibility of redemption. He placed the question of capital punishment within the context of a system of justice that continues to conform more closely "to the dignity of man and the design of God for and for society."

"The commandment, 'Thou shalt not kill'," Pope Francis said, "has absolute value, and concerns both the innocent and the guilty," and even criminals "maintain the inviolable right to life, the gift of God."

Following the Angelus, Pope Francis gave each pilgrim the gift of a small box, designed to look like a box of medicine, containing a small Rosary and an image of the Merciful Jesus.

"Lent is a good time to complete a journey of conversion, that has mercy at its centre," the Pope said. He invited the faithful to "welcome this gift as a spiritual aid in order, especially during this Year of Mercy, to spread love, forgiveness, and brotherhood."

This was the second time Pope Francis has offered Misericordin to the faithful. In November of 2013, the Pope encouraged the faithful to use the "spiritual medicine" in order "to make concrete the fruits of the Year of Faith" which was coming to an end.

On both occasions, the gifts were distributed by volunteers, including homeless people, refugees, and the poor.

Source: Vatican Radio