Pope on ecumenism and dialogue in the Caucasus
(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis
on Wednesday reflected on his just endedApostolic Visit to Georgia and
Azerbaijan and spoke about the importance of Christian Unity and
dialogue.
Speaking to pilgrims gathered
in St. Peter’s Square for the General Audience, the Pope expressed
his gratitude for having been able visit the neighboring Caucasian countries,
both of which are celebrating 25 years of independence having been part of the
Soviet Union for much of the 20th century.
Pope Francis had a special
thank you for the Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, and for the Sheikh of the
Muslims of the Caucasus with whom he was able to push forward ecumenism and
interreligious dialogue and - as he put it - promote the good of the
human person.
He described the visit as
complementary to his visit to Armenia last June and said that by visiting all
three nations of the Caucasus which are facing many challenges, he was able to
confirm the Catholic communities there and encourage all people in their
journey towards peace and fraternity.
“True mission – he pointed
out – is never proselytism, but attraction towards Christ, unity in prayer, in
adoration and in works of charity”.
In Georgia – he said - our
cooperation is naturally with our Orthodox brothers and sisters, and so – the
Pope continued - “Patriarch Ilia’s presence at the airport upon my arrival was
a very important sign”.
Christian unity, the Pope
said, is seen in the blood of so many Christian martyrs of different Christian
confessions, especially the Assyrian-Chaldean, “with whom we prayed for peace
in Syria, Iraq and the whole Middle East”.
And explaining that
Azerbaijan, is primarily a Muslim country, Pope Francis said he was able to
participate in an interreligious meeting as well as celebrating Mass with the
small Catholic community and encourage it to deepen its encounter and dialogue
with all who believe in God, so that together we can build a more just and
fraternal world.
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