Pope marks Easter with call for end to violence

Pope Benedict XVI implored the Syrian regime yesterday to end the bloodshed and expressed hope that the joy of Easter will comfort Christian communities suffering because of their faith.

Benedict, struggling with hoarseness and looking tired, celebrated Mass on Christianity’s most joyous holy day on the flower-adorned steps of St Peter’s Basilica, before a crowd of faithful that swelled to far above 100,000 by the end of the two-hour ceremony.

Only hours earlier the pontiff, who turns 85 on Apr 16, had led a long nighttime vigil service in the church. There have been concerns over his health, and he has recently used a cane in public appearances. He no longer walks down the basilica’s long aisle, travelling instead aboard a wheeled platform pushed by aides.