| Pope Benedict XVI |
It was Pope Benedict's last address to the faithful in Rome before leaving for a summer break in the mountains of northern Italy. He spoke out strongly against international terrorism.
To applause from the crowd, the pope said everyone feels a deep sadness over last Thursday's terrorist attacks in London. His words were addressed at those who, he said, foment feelings of hatred and to those who carry out such repugnant terrorist attacks.
God loves life, which he created, not death, the pope said, and raising his voice, he added: Stop in the name of God.
It was the second time after the London attacks that Pope Benedict spoke out against terrorism. Just hours after the blasts, the pope sent a message to the Archbishop of Westminster deploring the barbaric acts against humanity.
On Sunday, he prayed for the victims, for the injured and their families. But he also had prayers for those responsible for the attacks.
Let us also pray, the pope said, for the attackers. Let the Lord touch their hearts.
Pope Benedict travels to the mountain town of Les Combes in northern Italy on Monday where he will spend more than two weeks away from the heat of Rome. When he returns he will head to the papal summer residence in the hills south of Rome until his scheduled departure for his native Germany on August 18th, where he will celebrate World Youth Day in Cologne.