“The equitable participation of all men and women in the welfare of their society is the foundation of lasting peace” Pope Francis said May 10, 2018. “However, the equal participation of all also applies to all men of all societies throughout the world.”
His words came in a message sent to participants in the 101st German Catholic Convention (“Katholikentag”) starting May 10 in Münster, with the theme: “Search for Peace”.
The Holy Father warned about the dangers of fanaticism, which stress the importance of strong families.
“Today there is no more important topic in the public debate on religion than the problem of fanaticism and propensity to violence,” Francis warned. “We observe it in the family sphere, in the workplace, in associations, in our neighborhoods, in regions, and in nations: wherever man as such is not considered a gift from God there is disagreement, resentment, and hatred.
“I am deeply concerned about people, especially children and young people, who are forced to flee because of war and violence in their country, to save their lives. They knock on our doors asking for help and hospitality. In their eyes, we see the nostalgia for peace.’
The Pope concluded by emphasizing the important contribution of the Church, related associations, and parishes can make to achieving peace.
Pope’s Full Message
