Pope Leo XIV yesterday expressed concern over the “alarming situation” in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave off the North African coast that is facing a major migration and humanitarian crisis. Source: EWTN News.
“I am following with concern the alarming situation in Ceuta, praying to God that, through the intercession of Our Lady of Africa, solutions may be found to bring peace, stability and justice,” the Pope said after leading the Angelus in St Peter’s Square yesterday.
His remarks followed the arrival of an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people from Morocco on July 30, many of whom attempted to reach Spanish territory by swimming around the border barriers.
According to figures provided by Spanish authorities, at least 67 people died, most of them by drowning. The influx overwhelmed the autonomous city’s capacity to respond and prompted authorities to install additional barriers near the El Tarajal border crossing.
The Pope also renewed his appeal for an end to armed conflicts around the world.
“Let us continue to pray for peace, that wars may cease throughout the world and diplomatic solutions to conflicts may be found,” he said.
“Let us remember all the victims of hostilities, especially the weakest and most defenceless: children, the elderly and the sick,” he continued. “May the Lord comfort those who suffer and bless the work of those who bring aid and consolation.”
Earlier, in his reflection before the Angelus, Pope Leo encouraged Catholics to rediscover the practice of blessing meals as a simple public witness to faith and a way of bringing the beauty of the Eucharist into everyday life.
“As we savour the grace of the Eucharist, let us commit ourselves to bearing witness to its beauty in our daily actions, beginning with blessing meals at the table with family and friends,” he said.
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Pope Leo XIV appeals for peace and justice amid ‘alarming’ Ceuta crisis (By Victoria Cardiel, EWTN News)
