Pope addresses “Religions for Peace” delegation
(Vatican Radio) “Religions, with their spiritual and
moral resources, have a specific and unique role to play in building peace,”
Pope Francis said on Wednesday. “They cannot be neutral, much less
ambiguous, where peace is concerned,” he told a delegation of 80 members of “Religions for Peace”, who met him in the
Vatican.
Religions for Peace is the world’s largest and most
representative multi-religious coalition that advances common action among the
world’s religious communities to transform violent conflict, advance human
development, promote just and harmonious societies, and protect the earth.
Peace and justice
Noting that “peace is both a divine gift and a human
achievement,” the Pope said “believers of all religions are called to implore
peace and to intercede for it.” He stressed that “peacemaking and the
pursuit of justice go together,” and said that “all men and women of good
will, particularly those in positions of responsibility, are summoned to work
for peace with their hearts, minds and hands.”
Violence in God’s name
Pope Francis once again denounced violence in the name of
religion saying, “they gravely offend God, who is peace and the
source of peace, and has left in human beings a reflection of his wisdom,
power and beauty.”
Care for creation
The Pontiff expressed appreciation for the efforts of Religions
for Peace, saying “religions are bound by their very nature to promote peace
through justice, fraternity, disarmament and care for creation.” He
said there is a “need for a common and cooperative effort on the part of the
religions in promoting an integral ecology.” Religions, he noted
have the “wherewithal to further a moral covenant that can promote respect
for the dignity of the human person and care for creation.” The Pope
expressed satisfaction that there are many examples of the power of
interreligious cooperation around the world that oppose violent
conflicts, advance sustainable development and protect the earth.
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