At the end of the general audience on January 15, Pope Francis warmly greeted the youth, the sick, the elderly, and the newlyweds, calling on them to “generously bear witness to faith in Christ, who lights the way of life.”
This was reported by Vatican News.
Addressing thousands of pilgrims in the Paul VI Hall, His Holiness said:
“The day before yesterday, a landslide in the mining region of Kachin State in Myanmar destroyed many houses, causing casualties, missing persons, and significant damage. I am spiritually close to the victims of this disaster and pray for the victims and their families. May these brothers and sisters, who are enduring such trials, not lack the support and solidarity of the international community.”
The Bishop of Rome urged the faithful not to forget about the long-suffering Ukraine, Myanmar, Palestine, Israel and many other countries affected by war.
“Let us pray for peace. War is always a defeat. And please, let us pray for the conversion of the hearts of arms manufacturers because, with their products, they help to kill.”