Pope Francis urges negotiation over the war in a heartfelt plea

Pope Francis recently expressed his support for striving for peace through negotiation rather than continuing endless wars. In an interview with American television network CBS, he made a heartfelt appeal to countries currently embroiled in conflicts to prioritize peace talks.

"I ask the countries where wars are ongoing, all, stop the war. Let them try to negotiate, let them seek peace. A negotiated peace is better than an endless war," Pope Francis emphasized during the interview, which was broadcast from Wednesday to Thursday night.

During the discussion, which also touched on the situation in the Middle East, the Pope was questioned about his potential role in facilitating negotiations. His response was humble yet powerful: "I can pray. And that's what I'm doing. I pray a lot."

Reflecting on the war in Ukraine, Pope Francis shared a poignant observation about the children affected by the conflict: "These children don't know how to laugh. I try to talk to them, but they have forgotten how to smile. It is very sad when a child forgets to smile."

Furthermore, Pope Francis commented on the Church's role amidst such turmoil, suggesting that there's always a place for those seeking refuge or solace. "If in some parish the priest does not seem welcoming, I understand, but go look somewhere else, there is always a place," he advised.

He continued, stressing the inclusivity and vastness of the Church, "Do not run away from the Church. The Church is very big. It is more than a temple. You should not run away from it."