Nigeria is one of the nations where Christians are persecuted, according to Pope Leo XIV.
In a message shared on X on Sunday, the Pope conveyed his deep concern over the ongoing pattern of persecution and urged for renewed global dedication to protecting religious minorities. He also extended his heartfelt solidarity to families in Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, following a recent massacre where dozens of civilians tragically lost their lives in a new wave of violence. "God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children! I accompany in prayer the families of Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where in recent days there has been a massacre of civilians," he wrote.
The Pope made a passionate plea for an immediate halt to the bloodshed and called on faith communities worldwide to unite for stability and the greater good. "Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good," he added.
His powerful statements arrive amidst increasing apprehension regarding extremist attacks, heightened communal tensions, and a growing sense of insecurity impacting religious groups throughout Africa and Asia.
