Pope John Paul II called the international community to work on behalf of Haiti, shortly after former President Jean Bertrand Aristide fled the island.

After praying the Angelus with the pilgrims assembled in St. Peter’s Square, Pope John Paul remarked on “the worrisome and painful news that is coming to us from Haiti. In the face of such a situation I feel the duty to invite all Haitians to have the courage and humility to make those decisions that are necessary for the good of the country.”

“While I encourage the diplomatic work of the international community and I ask for a generous commitment on the part of humanitarian organizations, I send a special blessing for the beloved Haitian people,” he added.