“Unfortunately, many regions of the world are experiencing conflict and suffering, and Nigeria is also experiencing difficult times,” the pope said.
“In assuring you of my prayers for the security, unity, and spiritual and economic progress of your nation, I invite everyone to encourage dialogue and listen to each other with an open heart, without excluding anyone on a political, social, and religious level,” Francis added.
The pope also encouraged Nigerians to be “heralds of the great mercy of the Lord, working for reconciliation between all your brothers and sisters, contributing to alleviating the burden of the poor and the most needy.”
“In this way all Nigerians will be able to continue to walk together in fraternal solidarity and harmony,” he said.
“I entrust your community to the loving protection of the Virgin Mary, queen and patroness of Nigeria, and I heartily bless you. And please don’t forget to pray for me,” Pope Francis said.
🎥HIGHLIGHTS | Pope Francis met with the Nigerian Community in Rome in an audience at the Vatican. He thanked them for their witness to the Gospel and emphasized that Nigeria’s ethnic, cultural, and linguistic diversity is a gift, not a problem. pic.twitter.com/75wF9WQL3F
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) March 25, 2024
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