SW News: Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin has expressed hopes that Pope Francis' Apostolic Visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan would aid in bringing an end to the violence that plagues both countries. Speaking to Vatican Media, he said the Pope's presence could mark a turning point in the often tragic events in these countries.

The Pope will be in Africa from January 31 to February 5 during his 40th Apostolic Visit, bringing the Word of God, the prospect of peace, and a call to dialogue to the wounded nation. As the Successor of Peter will be traveling with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Iain Greenshields, the journey to South Sudan will have a strong ecumenical undertone.

Cardinal Parolin said the visit will be an ecumenism of witness, demonstrating closeness to the alive and active local churches and communities and fostering socio-political awareness in the hope of promoting peace. These are two realities that, for various reasons, are affected by the drama surrounding the plight of millions of refugees, guerrilla warfare, and ethnic and political tensions.

The prelate said that first and foremost, the Holy Father wants to get close to, interact with, and meet the locals. The Pope travels as a pastor to meet God's people and simultaneously as a pilgrim of peace and reconciliation because this visit has been eagerly anticipated for a long time but had to be postponed due to the Pope's knee problem. Additionally, these are two countries that are in a particularly difficult situation due to the conflicts that are occurring.

Cardinal Parolin said the Holy Father's presence as well as his words will support the ongoing peace and reconciliation procedures and encourage an end to the violence, adding that it is a major gesture that will undoubtedly bring consolation to the victims that the Pope is meeting with them. The first goal of this gathering is to offer comfort and consolation to the suffering communities. And then the other part is constantly to be encouraged to not give up on hope, and faith, or refrain from acting out of retaliation to prevent further rifts and to pursue peace. The Pope meets these sufferers to promote communion and fraternity.

In the end, the cardinal said that there is truly a need for a renewed commitment on the part of all. Then and only will it be feasible to guarantee the equitable development of every citizen and put these nations on the road to a better future.