Article author:
Associated Press
ROME (AP) — Pope Francis with Congo on Saturday He urged South Sudanese people and leaders to "turn pages" and build new paths for reconciliation, peace and development.
Francis published a video message on the day he was scheduled to begin a week-long pilgrimage to two African countries. He canceled his scheduled trip last month. It was difficult to walk or stand because of his knee pain.
In his message, Francis stated that he was "extremely disappointed" in the order of the events and promised to visit "as soon as possible".
He urged the people of both countries not to be deprived of hope despite the violence, political instability, exploitation and poverty that they said they had suffered for a long time.
"Starting with political leaders, you have a great mission to turn pages to open up new paths, reconciliation and forgiveness, and peaceful coexistence and development." Said Francis.
He said political leaders owe the pursuit of such goals to young people who dream of peace. To put down weapons, overcome all resentments, and write a new page of fraternity, "said the Pope.
Francis couldn't travel, but he will celebrate a special Mass in San Pietro for the Roman Congolese community on Sunday. He sent his second Cardinal Pietroparoline to visit both Congo and South Sudan on the day Francis was supposed to be there.
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