Pope Francis has said the world is guilty of "complicit silence" to the killing of Christians.
The pontiff used his traditional Good Friday Colosseum procession to speak about the persecution of Christians around the world.
He said too often other Christians failed to speak up when believers were targeted in the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere.
"We see, even today, our brothers persecuted, beheaded and crucified, for their faith in you, in front of our eyes or often with our complicit silence," he said during a prayer.
Francis sat silently with his eyes shut and head bowed for most of the torch-lit service as the details of Jesus' passion were read.
At the ceremony Christians from Iraq, Syria, Nigeria, Egypt and China were chosen to carry the cross.
All of them had experienced some form of persecution for their beliefs.
During the service a prayer was said for the "fundamental right of religious freedom" for all parts of the world.
The Holy Father will lead the Easter vigil Mass tonight in St Peter's Basilica whilst the Easter Sunday service will be held in St Peter's Square.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us
