Central African Republic Bishop Aiding Peace Process

"There are certain signs that make us hope that an agreement between the rebels and the government will be reached soon," a local source in the republic told the Vatican missionary agency Fides.

"Bishop Paulin Pomodimo, president of the bishops' conference, asked by the government to mediate with the rebel forces, continues his work tirelessly with the full support of all the bishops who met in Bangui to pray and talk about peace," the source said.

"Thanks to the intervention of Bishop Pomodimo, it would seem that the government and rebels are now willing to negotiate," the source added. Peace talks could convene presently in Paris.

Meanwhile, in some missions in the north, women religious have been able to resume their service, despite the fact the some missions were sacked and destroyed. Sisters have set to work to repair or rebuild mission structures, "offering testimony of faith strong enough to overcome all sorts of difficulties, even war," the source emphasized.