Pope to African leaders: Do not deprive people (AP)

COTONOU, Benin ? Pope Benedict XVI has made an impassioned plea to Africa's leaders to stop depriving their people of hope.

The pope made his comments during a meeting Saturday with the ruling elite of Benin, a country that has provided a rare example of functioning democracy in the region.

"From this place, I launch an appeal to all political and economic leaders of African countries," Benedict said. "Do not deprive your people of hope. Do not cut them off from their future by mutilating their present. Adopt a courageous, ethical approach to your responsibilities."

The highlight of the pope's 3-day visit is the unveiling of a document outlining the role of the church in Africa ? planned for later Saturday. The thrust of the document explains how church doctrine can be used to address the continent's ills.

Source: http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/topstories/*http%3A//news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20111119/ap_on_re_af/af_benin_pope

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