Pope sends message of solidarity to Iraqi Christians

100_6512_pope_closup1.jpgBaghdad, Jan. 10, 2008 (CWNews.com) – Pope Benedict XVI (bio – news) has conveyed his concern and solidarity for the Christians of Iraq, after a new series of bombings at churches there.

In a telegram to Chaldean Catholic Patriarch Emmanuel III Delly, signed by Cardinal Tarcision Bertone in his role as the Vatican Secretary of State, the Holy Father denounced the bombings that have targeted Catholic churches in Baghdad, Mosul, and Kirkuk this week. He promised his prayers for peace and assured the Iraqi prelate of his “heartfelt solidarity” with the embattled Christian communities.

The Pope urged “all those in authority to renew efforts toward peaceful negotiations aimed at a just resolution of the country’s difficulties, respectful of the rights of all.”