Turning his attention to the very real threat of nuclear war, Pope Francis recalled times when peace was chosen despite conflict.
C. Rubini CTC, Vatican News
Pope Francis commemorated the beginning of the Second Vatican Council 60 years ago following the Eucharist canonizing Bishop Giovanni Battista Scalabrini and Artemis Tzatti. “We must not forget the danger of nuclear war that threatened the world at that time,” the Pope stressed. “Why don’t we learn from history?” asked the Pope, indicating that “even though there were great conflicts and pressures at that time, the path of peace was chosen.”
Pray for Thailand.
Later in France, the Pope turned his thoughts to Thailand, where three days earlier a “crazy act of violence” took place. At least 37 people, mostly children, were killed in a gun and knife attack at a nursery at the Utto Sawan Child Welfare Center in northeastern Thailand. “With deep emotion, I entrust their lives to the Father, especially the little ones and their families,” the Pope said.
Maria Costanza Panas
The Pope also asked the faithful who came to participate in the canonization ceremonies to remember the beatification of the Capuchin Poor Clares nun Maria Costanza Panas in Fabriano, Italy. “May Blessed Maria Costanza always help us to believe in God and welcome our neighbors,” the Pope added. The Pope concluded by asking us to turn to the Virgin Mary to help us be witnesses of the Gospel, animated by the examples of the saints.
