Pope Francis Condems and Slams 'Brutal' Islamic State Militants

Pope Francis has used his Christmas message to condemn the "brutal persecution" of minorities by Islamic State militants and other countries where suffering abound.

The Pontiff told the tens of thousands of people in St Peter's Square, Rome, not to be indifferent to the suffering of so many around the world. He appealed for an end to conflicts in African countries and urged dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians.


He further condemned the attack by Taliban militants that killed more than 130 students in Pakistan last week, and thanked those helping the victims of the Ebola epidemic.

"I ask him, the Saviour of the world, to look upon our brothers and sisters in Iraq and Syria, who for too long now have suffered the effects of ongoing conflict, and who, together with those belonging to other ethnic and religious groups, are suffering a brutal persecution," he said.
"May Christmas bring them hope, as indeed also to the many displaced persons, exiles and refugees, children, adults and elderly, from this region and from the whole world."

Speaking from St Peter's Basilica, the Pope said: "May indifference be changed into closeness and rejection into hospitality, so that all who now are suffering may receive the necessary humanitarian help to overcome the rigours of winter, return to their countries and live with dignity," he said.

May will experience the most peace come 2015. Amen


Credit: CNN, Skynews