During the Sunday Angelus prayer, Pope Francis condemned the terrorist attacks in Paris and expressed his closeness to the French people, particularly those who lost loved ones.
The Pope also offered a pointed criticism of those who use violence in the name of religion.
POPE FRANCIS
'Such barbarity leaves us shocked and we wonder how the human heart can conceive and create such horrible events, which have shaken not only France but the whole world. Faced with such acts, one can only condemn the unspeakable affront to human dignity. I want to reaffirm strongly that the path of violence and hatred does not solve the problems of humanity and those who use God's name to justify that path are committing blasphemy!â?
Moments before, the Pope explained that following God is the best way to survive through the difficult moments in life.
POPE FRANCIS
'Even to this day there is no shortage of natural and moral disasters, adversity and hardships of all kinds. Everything passes-the Lord reminds us- only He and His word remain as a guiding light, reviving our steps and always forgiving us, because He is with us.â?
The Pope then led the thousands of pilgrims in St. Peter's Square as they recited a Hail Mary. He said, 'We ask her to protect us and to watch over the beloved French nation.â?
Toward the end of his remarks, Pope Francis also mentioned Fr. Paula Victor, a former slave from Brazil who was beatified over the weekend. Despite being a priest, he still faced discrimination, even from his own parish. The Pope described him as a model for other priests who 'especially distinguished himself for his great humility.â?
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