"Pope concerned by pro-abortion campaigns in Africa"

Pope Benedict XVI on Monday urged African society to cherish Christian family life and marriage and expressed concern about some "agencies" that promoted abortion in the continent. "A key focus of unity in a community is the institution of marriage and family life, which the people of Africa hold in particular esteem," the pontiff told Kenyan priests during a meeting at the Vatican.

But he warned that "the ills besetting parts of African society, such as promiscuity, polygamy and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, can be directly related to distorted notions of marriage and family life," Benedict said, according to a Vatican statement. - DPA

The article makes the point - and it seems sustainable to me - that the Pope's comments were prompted in-part by Amnesty International's continued defiance, as I blogged about earlier today.

Update: The major Catholic News Services have picked-up on the story:

• Pope decries international campaign for abortion - CWNews
• Defend marriage and family life at all costs, Benedict XVI tells Africans - CNA
• Abortion is never justified but women who repent should be welcomed, says Pope - Ansa.it