Papal appeals during Sunday's Angelus

By Vatican News

Afghanistan terror attacks

At the Angelus on Sunday, Pope Francis called for prayers in response to the “terrible” terrorist attacks in Afghanistan on Saturday and earlier this week. “How long will the Afghan people have to endure this inhuman violence?” More than one hundred people were killed, and hundreds more were wounded in Saturday’s attack in the capital of Kabul. “Let us pray for all the victims and for their families; and let us pray for all those, in that country, who continue to work to build peace.”

World Leprosy Day

Also following the Angelus, Pope Francis marked the observance on Sunday of World Leprosy Day. The Holy Father reminded those present of our obligation to pray for those affected by the disease – which especially strikes the poorest and most disadvantaged. “We assure these brothers and sisters of our closeness and solidarity; and we pray also for those who assist them and who work to help them re-enter society.”