Monday, December 3, 2018

Pope Lights Advent Candle for Peace in Syria; Appeals for Prayers So Christians Stay in Syria

During the Angelus yesterday with pilgrims in St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis reflected on the meaning of Advent and lit a candle for peace in Syria, the Independent Catholic News website reports today (December 3, 2018).

Advent is not just a time of preparation for Christmas, he said. We are also looking forward to the return of Christ at the end of time, as well as our own, personal encounter with Jesus at the end of our lives.

The pope warned that if we see Christmas only through the lens of consumerism, as a "worldly celebration," then "Jesus will pass us by, and we will not find Him." Let us await Jesus, Pope Francis said, "and let us desire to await Him in prayer."

He then called for prayers and concrete aid for Christians to remain in Syria. "Advent is a time for hope," he said. "At this time, I would like to make my own the hope of peace of the children of Syria."

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