Pope Francis is asking the international community to do more to fight the ebola virus plaguing western Africa.
In today’s general audience the Holy Father assured that he is “close to the many persons stricken by this terrible sickness.”
“I invite you to pray for them and for those who so tragically have lost their lives. I hope that the necessary aid of the International Community will not be lacking, to alleviate the sufferings of these brothers and sisters of ours.”
Francis led those at the audience in praying a Hail Mary, saying, “We pray to Our Lady for these sick brothers and sisters.”
Just a day earlier, on Tuesday, the Pontiff also mentioned the plight of the victims of ebola, in an address given to the bishops of Ghana, who are in Rome for their five-yearly ad limina visits.
The Pope noted the scores of charitable services led by the Church, including in particular the health care services. He mentioned that in the fight against ebola, many of those caring for the victims have lost their own lives.
“Out of the spiritual vitality of all the faithful come the Church’s numerous charitable, medical and educational endeavours, and her works of justice and equality,” his statement noted. “[…] I think in a particular way about the importance of the Church’s health care apostolate, not only in Ghana, but throughout western Africa, which is suffering at this time from the outbreak of Ebola.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of all who have died in this epidemic, among whom are priests, men and women religious and healthcare workers who contracted this terrible disease while caring for those suffering. May God strengthen all healthcare workers there and bring an end to this tragedy!”
