Pope Francis Prays for the End of Violence in the World During New Year Mass

Pope Francis prayed for end to violence in the world and war in Middle Eastern countries during his first mass at the Vatican in 2014.

From the Vatican, the Pope told the thousands of followers of the Catholic Church that gather each year at St. Peter's Square that the differences between people must end, saying that everyone shares the same destiny, according to the Associated Press.

During his Christmas mass last December 24, Pope Francis also prayed for peace in the world, especially for the armed conflicts currently affecting the Middle East and asked for respect and liberty for the Christians living in Iraq and Afghanistan.

During the New Year mass, the Argentinian Pope prayed for a quick reconciliation among countries so that war can end and that the differences between them can end.

The Vatican's local media, the Vatican Insider, reported that the Pope shared a letter he received from a man that suffered a family tragedy and asked for an end to violence.

"I believe it's time to walk away from the path of violence. I make this man's words my own: What is happening to man's heart, to humanity's heart? It's time to stop!" Pope Francis said.

The 77-year-old Pope explained that to end violence and have a solidary society people need to respect each other, accept each other and help and care for each other.

"This is the first day of the year, may the Lord help us all walk on the path of justice and peace; may the Holy Spirit acts in hearts, melt away hate and hardships. Peace, in fact, demands the strength of humility, the non-violent force of truth and love," Pope Francis said.