May you keep hope alight amidst flashes of war: this is the hope of Pope Francis for the fifteen members of the Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions
The last plenary assembly held on August 8, 2024 in the Vatican witnessed Pope Francis meeting with the bishops of the Conference of Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions, notably bishop Hanna Jallouf, the Apostolic Vicar of the Latin Church in Syria.
During this meeting, the Pope emphasized the importance of the Christian presence in the context of the Israeli conflict, highlighting the role of dialogue and reconciliation in a moment of increasing tension in the Middle East.
With a strong and clear appeal, Pope Francis highlighted the urgent need to keep hope alive in war-torn and divided lands.
Conflict in the Middle East:
Ongoing conflicts and tensions.
Pope Francis began his address to the bishops of the Conference of Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions expressing concern about the current conflict in the Middle East, which he described as a situation that seems to be becoming chronic. This situation arose due to Hamas’ aggression on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in a military response from the Israeli army and increased tensions in the region.
The conflict has resulted in tragic deaths and widespread destruction, creating an atmosphere of hatred and resentment that threatens to cause new tragedies. Pope Francis emphasized the importance of peace and called on us to think about how to overcome the divisions and enmities that have stratified and hardened over time. For the Pope, any action aimed at peace is essential in this conflict, with the risk of violence spreading and the entire region becoming involved.
Hope as a beacon in dark times
In such a dramatic context, the message of the Pope takes on even greater importance: it is a call to keep the flame of hope burning, and to be “gestures of peace and brotherhood” in places where all hope seems to have been extinguished by conflict. Christian presence, especially in regions where Christians are a minority, can play a crucial role in promoting dialogue and reconciliation. The Pope urged the bishops to continue tirelessly working for the good of their communities and to spread a culture of peace and understanding.
Education and spirituality: Pillars of the Christian community
The importance of Christian upbringing
Pope Francis then specifically called on the bishops to ensure appropriate Christian formation for young people, especially in public schools where the Christian presence is often a minority. Training is essential to ensure a good understanding and integration of faith values and principles into the lives of young people, preparing them to become active witnesses of Christian hope.
The Pope emphasized the importance of teaching methods that provide children and youth with the necessary tools to interact with the surrounding culture, enabling them to develop a strong faith capable of withstanding challenges and external pressures. Critical thinking and in-depth knowledge of faith are necessary for young people to present the reasons for their hope, face difficulties courageously, and stimulate fruitful dialogue with other components of society.
Interreligious dialogue is the key to peace
The Pope emphasized how interreligious dialogue can be a fundamental principle for building peace in the Middle East. The ability to establish peaceful and respectful relationships with other religions is one of the main challenges facing Christians in these regions. Recognizing and respecting diversity, facing differences with openness, not only contributes to peaceful coexistence but also strengthens the Christian community. Pope Francis prayed that the Lord would grant the bishops and their flock the strength to bear witness to their faith through sincere and respectful dialogue.
In conclusion, Pope Francis requested protection for the bishops of the Conference of Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions and their flock, and asked the Virgin Mary for “guardianship and comfort” for all present. This blessing perfectly fits within the framework of the message of hope, which obliges the Church to continue its work for peace and reconciliation in times of crisis. The efforts of Christian communities in the Middle East continue to be a living testimony of faith and resilience, at a particularly difficult historical moment.
