Pope calls for unity against violence as Africa tour ends
ADV
ADV
Pope calls for unity against violence as Africa tour ends

Pope calls for unity against violence as Africa tour ends

di lettura
(AGI) Rome, Nov 30 - Pope Francis's papal tour of Africa hasended with a visit to the Koundouko mosque in Bangui. He calledfor unity, "because every act, which from whatever side,disfigures the face of God, and whose ultimate aim is to defendagainst any and all means to the detriment of the common good.Christians, Muslims and members of the traditional religionshave lived together in peace for many years. Together, we mustsay no to hatred, no to revenge and no to violence,particularly that violence which is perpetrated in the name ofa religion or of God himself. God is peace, God Salam. In thesedramatic times, Christian and Muslim leaders have sought torise to the challenges of the moment. They have played animportant role in re-establishing harmony and fraternity amongall. I would like express my gratitude and appreciation forthis. We can also call to mind the many acts of solidaritywhich Christians and Muslims have shown with regard to theirfellow citizens of other religious confessions, by welcomingthem and defending them during this latest crisis in yourcountry, as well as in other parts of the world." He stressed:"Christians and Muslims are brothers and sisters. We musttherefore consider ourselves and conduct ourselves as such. Weare well aware that the recent events and acts of violencewhich have shaken your country were not grounded in properlyreligious motives. Those who claim to believe in God must alsobe men and women of peace. Christians, Muslims and members ofthe traditional religions have lived together in peace for manyyears." The Pope also expressed the hope that "the forthcomingnational consultations will provide the country with leaderscapable of bringing Central Africans together, thus becomingsymbols of national unity rather than merely representatives ofone or another faction. I strongly urge you to make yourcountry a welcoming home for all its children, regardless oftheir ethnic origin, political affiliation or religiousconfession. The Central African Republic, situated in the heartof Africa, with the cooperation of all her sons and daughters,will then prove a stimulus in this regard to the entirecontinent. It will prove a positive influence and helpextinguish the smouldering tensions which prevent Africans frombenefitting from that development which they deserve and towhich they have a right." (AGI). .
ADV