The Vatican’s appeal against kidnapping in Columbia

In a message written by the Vatican's secretary of state, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Pope appealed for prompt dialogue and the conversion of those who kidnap, so that peace can be attained in the country.

The papal note was announced at a press conference, and read by the secretary-general of Colombia's bishops' conference, Bishop Juan Vicente Cordoba of Fontibon.

Addressing the families of the kidnapped, the Pope said "the testimony of his closeness given the anguish over this iniquitous suffering, which no genuine political or social claim justifies."

In 2010, the phenomenon of abductions in Colombia increased again after several years of a decline: According to data from the Colombian Ministry of Defense, 282 individuals were kidnapped last year.

Officially, Colombia registers 24,000 kidnapped, but according to experts, the figure could be greater.

In a reply, the Colombian episcopate appealed to all the faithful and people of good will to dedicate the intention of the Christmas spirit, for the release of the kidnapped.

Bishop Cordoba recalled the Church's offer to facilitate dialogue between the armed groups and the state.