VATICAN CITY (ROME) – Calling Syrian civil war one of the worst humanitarian crises of current times Pope Francis said that its 10th anniversary should spur all to seek “a sliver of hope” for a devastated nation.
Addressing several hundred people in St. Peter’s Square for his weekly blessing and message, Francis said, “I renew my heartfelt appeal so that all sides in the conflict show a sign of good will so that a sliver of hope can open up for the worn-out population. Syria had seen “every type of violence and enormous suffering by the population, particularly the most vulnerable, such as children, women and the elderly.”
He also called for a “decisive” commitment by the international community to end fighting and help reconstruction and economic recovery.
He then led the crowd in prayer for the “beloved and martyred Syria.”