Those attacking Christians in India should renounce their acts: Pope

Vatican City, Oct 12 (IANS) Pope Benedict XVI has urged the perpetrators of anti-Christian violence in India to renounce their acts and 'join with their brothers and sisters to work together in building a civilisation of love'.

'Commending to the providential care of almighty god those who strive for peace and reconciliation, I urge the perpetrators of violence to renounce these acts and join with their brothers and sisters to work together in building a civilization of love,' the Pope told a 15-member Indian official delegation led by Labour Minister Oscar Fernandez after the Canonisation ceremony of Sister Alphonsa and three others Sunday.

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The Pope also said he would pray for the violence-hit Christians.

'As the Christian faithful of India give thanks to god for their first native daughter to be presented for public veneration, I wish to assure them of my prayers during this difficult time.'

The Pope said Saint Alphonsa's 'heroic virtues of patience, fortitude and perseverance in the midst of deep suffering remind us that god always provides the strength we need to overcome every trial.'

Earlier, the Pope had condemned the assassination of a Hindu leader in Orissa state of India Aug 23 and the anti-Christian violence unleashed after his murder even though Maoist rebels have claimed responsibility for the killing.

At least 35 people have been killed in the communal violence in Orissa.