Archbishop Wenksi Prays For Peace In Syria
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - Catholics across South Florida joined Catholics all around the world praying for peace in Syria. The pope called for a day of prayer and fasting for peace in Syria and the Middle East.
Archbishop Thomas Wenski celebrated mass at St. John Vianney Seminary in West Miami-Dade Saturday. During the mass, held in Spanish, his words were heavy with an overall message of non-violence.
"It's a humanitarian crisis. It will not be solved with more killing, with more violence. It will be solved with negotiation, dialogue, and humanitarian aid," said Archbishop Wenski.
Several groups of young adults attended the mass. Many said they are troubled by the situation in Syria.
"I think it's very sad," said Emmanuel Gozo, a seminarian from St. Petersburg.
"To see how people are dying how people are suffering, we're like at the peak of a war," said Sisan Walker.
The Catholic Church wants to avoid a war.
"We're praying that the leaders of the world look for a political and not a military solution," Wenski said. The Archbishop added, "I think the U.S. could do something politically by using its moral course to bring the players to the table I think the other world leaders have a responsibility to do the same."
Throughout the day, South Floridians took time to pray for peace.
"I think we can definitely help we're such a powerful nation but not with our weapons," said Walker.
Ivette Alvarez and her family spent some time at church on Saturday afternoon.
"A little time of peace and tranquility and silence in our crazy world and ask for peace across the whole world," said Alvarez.
Even as they pray for peace, some Catholics are torn about U.S. involvement in Syria.
"It's hard not to get involved…I think they should get involved but it's a little touchy situation," said Alvarez.
"I wouldn't want to be in Obama's shoes trying to make that decision that's why he's there and I'm here," said Gozo.
