Pope calls for end to Syria bloodshed
Reuters
2012-09-16
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Pope Benedict weaves his way through legions of worshippers in the Lebanese city of Beirut.
The 85-year-old pontiff is in Lebanon for an open-air mass on the shores of the Mediterranean.
Some 350 000 people attended the ceremony, in which Benedict called for an end to the bloodshed in neighbouring Syria.
He said: "In a world where violence constantly leaves behind its grim trail of death and destruction, to serve justice and peace is urgently necessary."
He also called for an end to arms shipments into Syria, which he called a "grave sin."
His visit comes amid a wave of sectarian violence in Lebanon itself - and pilgrims are hoping the visit helps restore calm.
SOUNDBITE) (English) PILGRIM RALPH SHAYA SAYING:
"The visit of the Pope is a very good step and I hope for Lebanese to stay in Lebanon and to live together in love and peace."
Benedict, who spent three days in Lebanon, will return to the Vatican Sunday evening.
The 85-year-old pontiff is in Lebanon for an open-air mass on the shores of the Mediterranean.
Some 350 000 people attended the ceremony, in which Benedict called for an end to the bloodshed in neighbouring Syria.
He said: "In a world where violence constantly leaves behind its grim trail of death and destruction, to serve justice and peace is urgently necessary."
He also called for an end to arms shipments into Syria, which he called a "grave sin."
His visit comes amid a wave of sectarian violence in Lebanon itself - and pilgrims are hoping the visit helps restore calm.
SOUNDBITE) (English) PILGRIM RALPH SHAYA SAYING:
"The visit of the Pope is a very good step and I hope for Lebanese to stay in Lebanon and to live together in love and peace."
Benedict, who spent three days in Lebanon, will return to the Vatican Sunday evening.
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