Benedict XVI Asks Prayers for Children

VATICAN CITY, NOV. 18, 2009 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is asking prayers for all the children of the world, especially those who suffer, and he is urging the international community to be committed in responding to the problems that affect childhood.

The Pope made this appeal today during the general audience in Paul VI Hall. His exhortation marked the 20th anniversary of the U.N. convention on the rights of the child, approved Nov. 20, 1989.

"My thoughts go out to all the children of the world, especially those who live in difficult conditions and suffer because of violence, abuses, illness, war and hunger," the Holy Father said.

"I invite you to join yourselves to my prayer and, at the same time, I appeal to the international community so that efforts will be multiplied to offer an adequate answer to the tragic problems of childhood," he continued. "Let not the generous commitment of all be lacking, so that the rights of children will be recognized and their dignity be increasingly respected."