After praying the Angelus, Pope Francis continued:
Dear brothers and sisters, Advent is a time of hope. At this time I would like to
express my hope for peace for the children of Syria, beloved Syria tormented by a
war that has already endured eight years. For this reason, joining the initiative of ‘Aid
to the Church in Need’, I will now light a candle, along with many children who will
do the same, Syrian children and many faithful throughout the world who today are
lighting their candles. [He lights a candle.]
May this flame of hope and many small flames of hope dispel the darkness of war!
Let us pray for and help Christians to remain in Syria and in the Middle East as
witnesses to mercy, forgiveness and reconciliation. May the flame of hope also reach
all those who are currently subjected to conflict and tension in various parts of the
world, near and far. May the prayer of the Church help them to feel the closeness of
the faithful God and touch each conscience for a sincere commitment to promote
peace. And may God, our Lord, forgive those who wage war, those who manufacture
weapons, and convert their hearts. Let us pray for peace in beloved Syria
[…]
