Pope calls for humane treatment for victims of piracy

Pope Benedict XVI on Sunday, prayed for seafarers, including Filipinos, who were held captive by pirates, the Vatican’s news site reported Monday (Manila time). In appealing for the victims of piracy, the Pope said he hopes that all those taken on the high seas will “receive humane and respectful treatment," the Vatican news portal reported. He also prayed that “the families of those being held remain strong in the faith, and not lose the hope that they will see their loved ones again soon." The Vatican said the Pope’s appeal highlighted World Maritime Day, which seeks to bring attention to the spiritual, moral and material challenges facing seafarers and their families. After Sunday’s Angelus, the pope also gave a special greeting to chaplains and volunteers involved in the pastoral care of seafarers, fishermen and their families. Several Filipino seafarers remain captive after pirates seized the ships they were serving on. - VVP, GMA News