Pope Francis expresses his closeness to Mozambique after protests and devastating cyclone

This Sunday, Pope Francis expressed his solidarity with the people of Mozambique, a country that is facing a double tragedy: the ravages of Cyclone Chido, which left more than 90 deadand the violent protests after the October 9 elections, caused by complaints of electoral fraud by the opposition.

“I always follow with attention and concern the news that comes from Mozambique, and I wish to renew to that beloved people my message of hope, peace and reconciliation,” he expressed from Casa Santa Marta, after praying the Angelus this Sunday, December 22.

In a context of political tensions, the Pope called for “dialogue and the search for the common good, sustained by faith and good will,” to prevail to overcome distrust and discord.

A call for peace in Ukraine, Gaza and the world

Pope Francis also directed his message to regions suffering from war, such as “tormented Ukraine,” which “continues to be hit by attacks in cities, which sometimes damage schools, hospitals, churches.”

“Let the guns be silent and the carols resound,” the Pontiff implored, calling for a ceasefire during Christmas on all war fronts, including the Holy Land and the Middle East.

He also spoke about the situation in the Gaza Strip, where bombings have caused the deaths of children and destroyed schools and hospitals. “And with pain I think of Gaza, of so much cruelty; in the machine-gunned children, in the bombing of schools and hospitals… How much cruelty!”, he lamented.

The Holy Father concluded his message by wishing those present a good Sunday and, as usual, asked for prayers for his ministry. “May the Lord bless you. Have a good lunch and goodbye!”