Pope calls for prayer, end of violence

In his Christmas address from the Vatican, Pope Benedict XVI called Sunday for an end to political violence around the world and relief from natural disasters. In the traditional "city and world" address known in Latin as "Urbi et Orbi," the pope cited a litany of ongoing conflicts. "May the Lord come to the aid of our world torn by so many conflicts which even today stain the Earth with blood," the pontiff said. ""May he bring an end to the violence in Syria, where so much blood has already been shed. "May he foster full econciliation and stability in Iraq and Afghanistan. May he grant renewed vigor to all elements of society in the countries of North Africa and the Middle East as they strive to advance thecommon good." The pope also asked for prayers and international support for flood victims in Thailand and the Philippines. Concluding his address, Benedict offered brief Christmas blessings in 65 languages.