Pope Francis: War must not be waged in the name of God

Pope Francis has appealed for peace and reconciliation in Niger, where many churches and other Christian buildings have been destroyed by rioters protests over the Charlie Hebdo cartoons. Addressing the crowds  at the weekly General Audience today, the Pope explicitly referred to brutalities perpetrated against Christians, children and churches.

He invited everyone present to join him in praying for the victims of recent violence in Niger. The Holy Father said: "Let us ask the Lord – for the gift of reconciliation and peace. May religious sentiment never give rise to violence, oppression and destruction..." "War must not be waged in the name of God” he said.

Pope Francis concluded his appeal expressing his hope that a climate of reciprocal respect and peaceful cohabitation be re-established in the West African nation as soon as possible for the good of all.

Last week, two days of violent protests in Niger’s capital Niamey and in the town of Zinder, left at least 15 people dead and dozens injured. Security forces have been using tear gas to disperse hundreds of opposition supporters taking part in banned demonstrations in the capital.

See also ICN 19 January 2015 Niger: churches destroyed in Charlie Hebdo protests; anti Muslim attacks in Europe www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=26521