Pope Deplores Bloodshed in Holy Land

Pope Deplores Bloodshed in Holy Land

ROME, MAY 24, 2004 (Zenit.org).- John Paul II deplored the seemingly daily bloodshed between Israelis and Palestinians that stifles chances for peace in the Holy Land.

"Unfortunately, thoughts of the Holy Land stir in our hearts concern and sorrow over the violence that continues to mark that place, because of the great quantity of innocent blood spilled by Israelis and Palestinians, which darkens the rising of a dawn of peace in justice," the Pope said.

The Holy Father's words were part of the message that was read Sunday in his name by Cardinal Camillo Ruini in the Synagogue of Rome, for the celebration of its centenary.

John Paul II implored that "the enmity will not crush with hatred those who recognize Abraham as father -- Jews, Christians and Muslims -- and make room for the clear awareness of the bonds that unite them and the responsibility that weighs on the shoulders of one another."

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