An appeal "to the pastors and the faithful, to all those who play a role of responsibility in the civil community, so that, by promoting mutual respect between different cultures and religions, they may create the conditions for a serene and peaceful cohabitation all over the Middle East as soon as possible". The appeal was made by the Pope as he received in audience the members of R.O.A.C.O (Riunione Opere Aiuto Chiese Orientali), a Committee of the Holy See that brings together the agencies and centres of some countries who work for providing financial aid to the Eastern Churches in different areas: from the building of places of worship, to scholarships, educational and school centres to social and health care facilities. Among the Eastern Catholic communities, Benedict XVI mentioned first and foremost the Catholic community of the Holy Land. "It is the wish of all Christians said the Holy Father to be able to find a lively Christian community at all times in the land that was the birthplace of our Redeemer. The serious difficulties it is experiencing, due to the climate of heavy insecurity, the lack of employment, the countless restrictions with the ensuing rise in poverty, are a source of suffering for all of us". A situation, this was Benedict XVI’s cry of alarm, which "makes quite uncertain the educational, professional and personal future of the young generations, who are unfortunately deeply tempted to leave once and for all their beloved birthplace". (to be continued)
