Pope Francis raised his prayers for peace in Niger, the African country, urging the international community to find a peaceful solution amid the tensions caused by the recent coup.
The Pope expressed: “I follow what is happening in Niger with concern. I join the call of the bishops in favor of peace in the country and stability in the Sahel region.
“I accompany with prayer the efforts of the international community to find a peaceful solution as soon as possible for the good of all,” the Holy Father was speaking after the Angelus prayer on 20 August, Sunday.
Just two weeks ago, the military’s top echelons carried out an overthrow of Niger’s president, Mohamed Bazoum. In the midst of this revolt, the commander of the presidential guard, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, took the initiative to proclaim himself the country’s leader.
In a statement issued last Friday, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) affirmed its willingness to undertake military intervention in Niger if requested.
During his message this Sunday, the Holy Father also extended his request for prayers to the Nigerian people and to other nations affected by conflict and violence. In particular, he mentioned the difficult situation in Ukraine, which has been struggling against adversity for a long time.
Reflecting on the Gospel of the day, Pope Francis pointed out that Christians must imitate Jesus by being firm, not inflexible, in their convictions, thus being open to change for the good of others.
“God is like that: he is love, and whoever loves does not remain rigid. Yes, he remains firm, but not rigid. He does not remain rigid in his own positions, but allows himself to be moved and moved; he knows how to change his schemes, ”he said.
The Pope urged Christians to be equally flexible and compassionate in their relationships and in their lives of faith.