During the Angelus, the pope expressed his concern about the situation in Iraq. In the last two months, the fights between the police and demonstrators have left more than 300 dead and thousands injured.
There are two primary reasons for protests: to denounce corruption and criticize the Iranian influence on local politics. The situation has caused the prime minister to resign.
POPE FRANCIS
“I am worried about the situation in Iraq. I pray for the dead and the wounded, and express my closeness to their families and the entire Iraq community.”
The pope also remembered the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life has instituted a new international youth advisory body.
He explained it's made up of 20 young people from different parts of the world to respond to one of the requirements from the synod dedicated to young people in 2018.
POPE FRANCIS
“The purpose of this body is to help understand young people's vision and priorities in youth ministry and other topics of general interest. Let us pray for this.”
Pope Francis is giving impetus to organizations that help verify the application of conclusions of the last synods so they do not remain empty promises.
Javier Romero
Translated: Rachel Dobrzynski
