VATICAN CITY: Pope Benedict ushered in the first new year of his papacy yesterday urging humanity to take a leap of faith in God to prevent terrorism, nihilism and fanatical fundamentalism undermining peace.
The Pope addressed his homily to thousands of pilgrims gathered in St Peter's Basilica for New Year's Day Mass, celebrated on the Roman Catholic Church's annual World Day of Peace.
The German pontiff also called on the United Nations to fulfil its responsibilities to promote justice, peace and solidarity in an increasingly globalised world.
"Terrorism, nihilism and fanatical fundamentalism - faced with these threats, it becomes more than necessary to work together for peace," the Pope said.
"There is the need for a leap of courage and faith in God and mankind to choose the path to peace." Terrorism was an important theme in the Pope's 12-page World Day of Peace message, which was issued last month and sent to heads of state and government and to international organisations around the world.
In the message, entitled "In Truth, Peace", he also said war could not be an excuse for disregarding international humanitarian law.
The Pope did not name any countries or wars, but his words chimed with reports of abuse of prisoners by the US in Iraq and at Guantanamo Bay.
The reports have incensed adversaries of the US and alienated some of its allies.
The Pope is due to publish his first encyclical shortly, a major writing addressed to all Church members, addressing the individual's relationship with God.