Pope's message for World Day of Peace

Pope Benedict XVI announced plans for a "peace summit" during his World Day of Peace message before the Angelus today. The October meeting of world religious leaders will be held in Assisi.

From EWTN News:

The October gathering will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the first World Day of Prayer for Peace, reported Vatican Radio.

The Pope's announcement came shortly after suicide bombers in Egypt killed 21 Coptic Christians leaving Mass on Jan. 1.

In addition to calling for the October meeting, Benedict XVI asked Catholics to pray “for peace throughout the world.”

“I invite all of you to join in heartfelt prayer to Christ the Prince of Peace for an end to violence and conflict wherever they are found.”

The Pontiff then prayed that those gathered receive “God’s abundant blessings” in 2011.

To read the full text of the pope's message, which addresses religious persecution and religious freedom, and calls for cooperation among the great religions of the world, click HERE.