Pope calls for peace education
- 12 years ago
Pope Benedict greets thousands gathered for New Year's mass in St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.
The 84-year-old pontiff, who is believed to be suffering from arthritis, is wheeled up the central aisle on a mobile platform.
The Vatican says it is to conserve his strength, allow more people to see him and guard against potential attacks.
On the day the Roman Catholic Church marks its annual World Day of Peace, the pope's message to the crowds gathered in St Peter's Square after the mass focused on the need to educate new generations in justice and peace, and promote reconciliation in areas of conflict.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) POPE BENEDICT XVI SAYING:
"As we cross the threshold of the New Year as today marks the World Day of Peace, I invite all of you to join me in praying earnestly (THE FOLLOWING UNDER VIDEO OF STATUE OF ANGEL AND ZOOM OUT TO FAITHFUL ON SQUARE) for peace throughout the world, for reconciliation and forgiveness in areas of conflict, and for a more just and equitable distribution of the world's resources."
The pope's official message for the World Day of Peace which was issued last month is sent to world leaders and international institutions.
Sunita Rappai, Reuters
The 84-year-old pontiff, who is believed to be suffering from arthritis, is wheeled up the central aisle on a mobile platform.
The Vatican says it is to conserve his strength, allow more people to see him and guard against potential attacks.
On the day the Roman Catholic Church marks its annual World Day of Peace, the pope's message to the crowds gathered in St Peter's Square after the mass focused on the need to educate new generations in justice and peace, and promote reconciliation in areas of conflict.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) POPE BENEDICT XVI SAYING:
"As we cross the threshold of the New Year as today marks the World Day of Peace, I invite all of you to join me in praying earnestly (THE FOLLOWING UNDER VIDEO OF STATUE OF ANGEL AND ZOOM OUT TO FAITHFUL ON SQUARE) for peace throughout the world, for reconciliation and forgiveness in areas of conflict, and for a more just and equitable distribution of the world's resources."
The pope's official message for the World Day of Peace which was issued last month is sent to world leaders and international institutions.
Sunita Rappai, Reuters