In Easter message, pope urges diplomacy in Libya

[Omaha Steve]

Source: AP

By FRANCES D'EMILIO

VATICAN CITY (AP) - Pope Benedict XVI contrasted war and hunger with the joy of Easter Sunday and issued a ringing call for diplomacy to prevail over fighting in Libya, for nations to welcome refugees from conflict and for Middle East leaders to respect their citizens.

Benedict celebrated Easter Mass in St. Peter's Square, packed with pilgrims and tourists and awash in the bright colors of spring flowers as he marked the church's most joyous day of the year.

He told the crowd: "In the current conflict in Libya, may diplomacy and dialogue replace arms, and may those who suffer as a result of the conflict be given access to humanitarian aid."

Referring to northern Africa and the Middle East, the pope prayed for the realization of a society where "every political choice is inspired by respect for the human person."


Read more: http://apnews.excite.com/article/20110424/D9MQ21880.html

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Pope Benedict XVI blesses the faithful upon his arrival in St. Peter's square to celebrate Easter mass at the Vatican, Sunday, April 24, 2011. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)