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Today’s feast brings to mind “white-glove” martyrdom, says Pope

Pope Francis celebrates a Mass at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on Saturday, June 29, 2024

Antoine Mekary | ALETEIA

Kathleen N. Hattrup - published on 06/30/24

More people are killed for their faith today than in the first centuries of the Church, the Pope explained.

Pope Francis reiterated that today is also an age of martyrdom, calling the faithful to pray for all those persecuted for their faith on this feast of the Roman Protomartyrs.

The Holy Father noted the feast day after praying the midday Angelus on June 30, 2024.

Today we remember the Roman Protomartyrs. We too live in a time of martyrdom, one that is even more so than in the early centuries. Many of our brothers and sisters in various parts of the world suffer discrimination and persecution because of their faith; they thus bring fecundity to the Church. Others face a “white-glove” martyrdom.

Let us support them and be inspired by their testimony of love for Christ.

[Article continues below video]

Threats to religious freedom affect people of many faiths, including Christians, as can be seen in many reports.

The Holy Father frequently notes the astonishing number of Christians being killed today. In recent weeks, he’s spoken of the situation in Congo.

Tags:
MartyrsPope FrancisReligious Freedom
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