Pope Francis Prays For Nigeria, South Sudan Others In Christmas Mass

Pope Francis in his first Christmas Eve Mass in St.
Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, on Wednesday, prayed
for Nigeria and other countries contending with
terrorists' attacks.
In his Christmas message, the Pope specifically
asked God to defend Nigeria's innocent and
defenceless people.
Other countries the Pope prayed for are South Sudan,
Syria, Israel, Palestine, Iraq, Philippines, and
Democratic Republic of Congo.
He said the countries had been torn apart by a spiral
of violence and poverty, where so many people had
become homeless, lacking water, food and the
necessities of life.
He said, "Prince of Peace, in every place turn hearts
aside from violence and inspire them to lay down
arms and undertake the path of dialogue. Look upon
Nigeria, rent by constant attacks which do not spare
the innocent and defenceless. Child of Bethlehem,
touch the hearts of all those engaged in human
trafficking, that they may realise the gravity of this
crime against humanity. Look upon the many
children who are kidnapped, wounded and killed in
armed conflicts, and all those who are robbed of their
childhood and forced to become soldiers."
"Lord of heaven and earth, look upon our planet,
frequently exploited by human greed and rapacity.
Help and protect all the victims of natural disasters,
especially the beloved people of the Philippines,
gravely affected by the recent typhoon."
The Pope also urged God to prevent tragedies from
occurring in 2014, adding that peace comes from
daily commitment.