CAR-Nigeria: Pope Francis condemns violence on Christians

Pope Francis has condemned violence against Christians in Nigeria and the Central African Republic during his general audience on Wednesday.

He was referring to an attack on Catholics attending Sunday Mass in southern Nigeria as well as recent violence against Christians in the Central African Republic.

At least 13 people were killed and 26 others wounded on Sunday when gunmen opened fire on worshippers in a Catholic Church near the city of Onitsha, in Nigeria.

The Sovereign Pontiff said these attacks were perpetrated against innocent people. All catholics have been invited to pray for their brothers and sisters in the countries concerned.

The head of the Roman Catholic Church added that he hopes all forms of violence and hatred would cease especially those perpetrated where the faithful gather to pray.