After the Angelus on Sunday, Pope Francis called for an end to the conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023. He described it as “the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis,” with devastating impacts extending to South Sudan.
Pope Francis urged the warring factions in Sudan to cease hostilities and engage in negotiations, appealing to the international community to back peace efforts and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid.
“I stand with the people of both nations, encouraging fraternity, solidarity, and a rejection of violence, while urging them not to be manipulated,” he said.
The Pope also voiced concern over the crisis in Colombia’s Catatumbo region, where clashes between armed groups have claimed many civilian lives and displaced over 30,000 people.
“I extend my solidarity to them and offer my prayers,” he added.
“I once again call on everyone to join efforts in eliminating the scourge of anti-Semitism, as well as all forms of discrimination and religious persecution,” Pope Francis said. “Let us work together to create a more fraternal and just world, fostering in young people hearts that embrace fraternity, forgiveness, and peace.”
He concluded by extending greetings to all media professionals gathered in Rome for the Jubilee for the World of Communications.
The Pope encouraged journalists to “continue being storytellers of hope.”