My thoughts turn first to all those who have lost their loved ones and their homes, to
families that were separated and never reunited, to all the children and the elderly,
and the women and men who have suffered terribly on account of the conflicts and
violence that have spawned so much death, hunger, hurt and tears. We have clearly
heard the cry of the poor and the needy; it rises up to heaven, to the very heart of
God our Father, who desires to grant them justice and peace. I think often of these
suffering souls and I pray that the fires of war will finally die down, so that they can
return to their homes and live in serenity. I pray to Almighty God that peace will
come to your land, and I ask all men and women of good will to work for peace
among your people.