Faithful urged to walk to Mass on Sunday 31 August as a gesture of solidarity with persecuted Christians.

There is no scarcity of martyrs in the Church of our time - Bishop Michael Smith of Meath.

Pontiff recalls "senseless slaughter" of First World War on centenary of the outbreak of conflict.

Bishop McAreavey appeals on behalf of persecuted and endangered Christian communities and calls for an end to the conflicts in Iraq, Syria, Palestine and Israel.

Pontiff assures Christians of the Middle East of his closeness and constant prayer.

Concern over attacks by Israeli military on Gaza's civilian population and firing of rockets by militants from Gaza on Israeli civilians.

Bishop McAreavey of Dromore asks for prayers to be included at Masses.

Pontiff calls for "urgent" solution to Syrian conflict.

Warning that West's "indifference" to plight of Christians is compounding the crisis.

Christians are part of the fabric of society, often acting as bridge-builders.

Pontiff prays for peace in the Holy Land, Syria and the Middle East.