After praying the Angelus, the Holy Father continued:
Dear brothers and sisters,
I unite myself to the sorrow of the people of Sri Lanka who continue to suffer the effects of political and economic instability. Together with the Bishops of the country, I renew my appeal for peace and I implore those who have authority not to ignore the cry of the poor and the necessities of the people.
I would like to address a special thought to the people of Libya, in particular to the young people and to all those who are suffering because of the serious social and economic problems in the country. I urge everyone to seek ever new convincing solutions with the help of the international community, through constructive dialogue and national reconciliation.
I renew my closeness to the Ukrainian people, who are daily tormented by the brutal attacks that the ordinary people are paying for. I pray for all the families, especially for the victims, the wounded, those who are sick. I pray for the elderly and for the children. May God show the way to put an end to this senseless war.
Sea Sunday is being celebrated today. Let us remember all seafarers with esteem and gratitude for their precious work, as well as the chaplains and volunteers of “Stella Maris”. I entrust to Our Lady those seafarers who find themselves stranded in war zones so that they might return home.
I greet the group from São Tomás College from Lisbon, and the members of the faithful from Viseu, Portugal; the “Siempre Así” choir from Spain; the young people from the Archdiocese of Berlin and the Confirmation candidates from Bolgare (Bergamo). I extend my greeting to the Polish pilgrims as well as those who are participating in the annual pilgrimage of families from Radio Maria to the Shrine of Częstochowa. I greet the priests from various countries who are participating in the course for seminary formators organized by the Istituto Sacerdos of Rome.
I wish all of you a good Sunday. Please, do not forget to pray for me. Enjoy your lunch and arrivederci!
