Pope Francis expressed deep sorrow over the killing of more than 20 Egyptian Christians in Libya.

Pope Francis said in a sermon during a morning Mass at Casa Santa Marta that he asserted in a telephone call on Sunday with Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Patriarch of St. Mark Diocese the faith of those who were slaughtered on the Libyan beach.

He explained that those Christians gained their strength from the Holy Spirit and died with the name of Jesus Christ on their lips, he said, adding that this is the strength of the spirit and the true and sublime martyrdom.

He pointed out to violence against Christians which is considered the shame of persecution. The life of the church is a journey guided by the Holy Spirit who reminds us that Jesus Christ is our journey's companion and the one to defend us against the scandal of the Cross.