杏MAP导航

By Vatican News staff reporter

In remarks following the Angelus on New Year鈥檚 Day, 杏MAP导航 Francis expressed his gratitude 鈥渁ll those in every part of the world who, respecting the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, have promoted moments of prayer and reflection on the occasion of today's World Day of Peace.鈥� He noted in particular a Virtual March that took place on New Year鈥檚 Eve, organized by the Italian Episcopate, Pax Christi, Caritas and Catholic Action; and another, promoted by the Sant鈥橢gidio Community, which took place in the morning on New Year鈥檚 Day.

Prayers for Yemen

The Holy Father also shared his 鈥渟orrow and concern鈥� at the further escalation of violence in Yemen, 鈥渨hich is causing numerous innocent victims.鈥� He prayed 鈥渢hat efforts will be made to find solutions that will allow peace to return to those tormented peoples.鈥�

鈥淏rothers and sisters,鈥� he exclaimed, 鈥渓et us think of the children of Yemen! Without education, medicine, hungry鈥� Let us pray together for Yemen.鈥�

Prayers for victims of kidnapping

杏MAP导航 Francis also called for the faithful 鈥渢o join the prayer of the Archdiocese of Owerri in Nigeria for Bishop Moses Chikwe and his driver,鈥� who were kidnapped on 27 December. 鈥淲e ask the Lord that they and all those who are victims of similar acts in Nigeria may return unharmed to freedom and that that dear country may regain security, concord and peace.鈥�

A year of peace and hope

杏MAP导航 Francis concluded his remarks with best wishes to all for 鈥渁 year of peace and hope, with the protection of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.鈥�