The "Urbi et Orbi" message "to the city and the world" was delivered from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica amid tight security with people trying to enter the square having to pass through several checkpoints.
On the eve of Easter, Francis celebrated the traditional Vigil Mass in St Peter's Basilica. Christians around the world are marking the Holy Week, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, leading up to his resurrection on Easter.
On Sunday he recalled "all those forced to leave their homelands as a result of armed conflicts, terrorist attacks, starvation and oppressive regimes".
Pope Francis kisses the altar as he celebrates the Easter Mass, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, April 16, 2017.
At least 126 people, including 68 children, were killed in a bomb attack Saturday near Aleppo when a vehicle loaded with explosives hit buses transporting evacuees from mostly government-held towns.
"Yesterday saw the latest vile attack on fleeing refugees, resulting in the death and injury of many", he continued.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel urges 'respectful dialogue' in Turkey after referendum
He added, however, the measure's approval raises questions about "whether or not Turkey shares common values" with the U.S. Opposition parties claim a win for the Yes side was called before all ballots had been counted.
The pope's remarks also acknowledged the suffering of immigrants and human trafficking victims, urging them to "look beyond" for "a direction in the midst of so many calamities".
"Especially in these days, may he sustain the efforts of all those actively engaged in bringing comfort and relief to the civil population in Syria, prey to a war that continues to sow horror and death".
Normally, the pope doesn't give a homily during Easter Mass. - "He is truly risen, as he said!"
"The church never ceases to say to with our defeaters, to our closed and fearful hearts, 'Stop, the Lord is risen, '" Pope Francis said Sunday according to multiple reports".
Easter is "more than a party with many flowers", Francis said, ending his speech with the entreaty, "As you go home today, repeat to yourselves: Christ has resurrected".
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