Pope Benedict calls IRA announcement 'wonderful news'

Published: 2005-08-01

CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI said the Irish Republican Army's announcement that it had ended its armed campaign was "wonderful news" that must be followed by efforts to promote trust and reconciliation. "To the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Patrick and all the saints of Ireland we entrust our common prayer for this intention," he said July 31 after reciting the Angelus at his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo. With several thousand people gathered in the courtyard of the residence on a sweltering hot day, the pope praised the IRA's decision to end its armed struggle and rely solely on peaceful negotiations. "This is wonderful news, which contrasts with the painful events we are witnessing daily in many parts of the world," he said. The IRA decision, announced July 28, "rightly has given rise to satisfaction and hope on the island and to the entire international community."

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