The Pope has called for an end to the escalating violence in Northern Ireland, where the Real IRA and Continuity IRA have murdered two soldiers and a police officer.

Benedict XVI has called for patience and dialogue to build a just and reconciled society in the country, which endured decades of civil and religious strife. 

Benedict XVI
I want to assure my spiritual closeness to the families of the victims and the wounded, I strongly condemn these abominable terrorist acts which besides desecrating human life, endanger the peace process in Northern Ireland.  

Among those present at the general audience was the victim of another terrorist group: Clara Rojas, who was held hostage for 6 years by Colombian guerrillas.  

She has asked the Pope to support the release of 3,000 people held prisoner by Colombian guerrillas.  She also sent a message to all of the hostages.  

Clara Rojas
Former FARC Hostage (Colombia)
We are thinking of them with all our hearts.  On receiving the blessing of the Holy Father, I want this strength to reach them, because we are waiting for them.  

Throughout his pontificate, Benedict XVI has called for the release of Colombian hostages at least three times.  Once, in the presence of another former hostage, Ingrid Betancourt.