Nigeria
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.
01:13
Burkina Faso: Jihadist attacks have killed about 50 civilians since May, HRW says
Go to video
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk assassinated at Utah university
01:42
UN humanitarian chief warns of imminent funding crisis in Haiti
00:32
Port-au-Prince burst into color as Vodou followers gather for “march for peace”
Go to video
Nigeria's maternal mortality rates prompt urgent community initiatives
01:09
Mali: Ségou region curfew extended by 30 days amid rising violence