Pope: help those in need
2009-12-31 21:09
Vatican City - Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday called for more solidarity to help people find their way through the fallout of the economic crisis during his annual New Year's Eve address.
While giving thanks for the year that is coming to a close, the head of the Roman Catholic Church reminded listeners that many people are still suffering unemployment and other problems stemming from the global financial crisis and urged the more fortunate to show greater support for those people in 2010.
The pontiff's "Te Deum laudamus" (we praise thee, Lord) evening service is held every New Year's Eve to express thanks for the year coming to an end.
On Friday, the pope will deliver his annual New Year's address at St Peter's Square at 09:00 GMT. Since its establishment by Pope Paul V in 1967, the New Year's Day speech has been used by pontiffs to deliver a message of peace to rulers around the world.
- SAPA