Pope Francis inaugurated the new year with an Angelus on the World Day of Peace. Pilgrims from different parts of the world accompanied him in this prayer.
On this occasion, the pope shared his concern for the people of Nicaragua, where the Church is facing persecution.
“I follow with deep concern what is happening in Nicaragua, where bishops and priests have been deprived of their freedom,” Pope Francis said. “I express to them, to their families and to the entire Church in the country my closeness in prayer. I also invite all of you present here and the entire People of God to insistent prayer, while I hope that we will always seek the path of dialogue to overcome difficulties.”
Along with praying for peace in Nicaragua, Pope Francis also expressed his tireless desire for peace in Ukraine, Israel and Palestine.