Pope Benedict prays for kidnapped Iraqi archbishop
ICC Note
“I encourage all pastors and faithful to be strong and steadfast in hope, and to all who hold dear the fate of the Iraqi people, let us multiply our efforts that the peace and security to which you are entitled will not be denied you in the future,”
Mar 2, 2008 Iraq (CNA).- Speaking after his Sunday Angelus, Pope Benedict XVI voiced prayers of support for a kidnapped Iraqi archbishop and for peace in the Holy Land .
Archbishop Rahho was ambushed on Friday after leaving a church where he had celebrated the Way of the Cross. A group of armed men opened fire on the archbishops vehicle, killing three aides, before abducting the clergyman.
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“I encourage all pastors and faithful to be strong and steadfast in hope, and to all who hold dear the fate of the Iraqi people, let us multiply our efforts that the peace and security to which you are entitled will not be denied you in the future,” the Pope said.
The Holy Father also expressed concern about tensions between Israel and Gaza , which became very serious this week. Yesterday, some 54 people in Gaza were killed as a result of Israeli air strikes in retaliation for Hamas militants rocket attacks on Israel .
