After praying the Angelus, Pope Francis expressed his concern over the crisis in Kazakhstan, where rising fuel prices have triggered a wave of protests.
The government asked for the help from neighboring Russia to quell them, and as a result some 200 protesters have been killed and hundreds more wounded.
POPE FRANCIS
'I pray for them and for their families, and I hope that social harmony will return as soon as possible through the pursuit of dialogue, justice and the common good. I entrust the Kazakh people to the protection of Our Lady.'
On the feast of the Baptism of Jesus, the Pope urged Christians to reflect on the significance of this sacrament.
POPE FRANCIS
'And to all of you: learn the date of your baptism. When was I baptized? This you must not forget. And remember that day as a feast day.'
He also reflected on the scene of Jesus' baptism and suggested paying attention to how he prayed.
JRB
TR: JM
