Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Fides Service) - “Use the extraordinary power of love to counter violence and hatred”: this advice was offered by Archbishop Pedro Lopez Quintana Papal Nuncio in India during a recent first visit to the travailed northern states of Nagaland and Manipur.
The Nuncio was warmly welcomed by the civil authorities and with them he discussed the need to restore peace in the region afflicted by social and ethnic conflict and promote social well-being. In Nagaland state the archbishop visited the diocese of Kohima which has the same area as the state. “Surrounded by a situation of violence you are called to be builders of peace”, the Nuncio told some 7,000 Catholics gathered in Kohima cathedral. “You know we are all responsible for building peace in the world. Respond to blind violence and inhuman hatred with the extraordinary power of love. Forgive those who offend you. Do not let yourselves be dragged into manifestations of nationalism, racism and intolerance” the archbishop said.
In Nagaland, the home of the Naga majority, there has been a strong separatist movement for the past fifty years. In the last thirty years a campaign for independence triggered conflict with other minority groups and clashes with the Indian army causing the deaths of at least 100,000 people. At the moment Naga representatives and government authorities are holding talks.
After Nagaland the Nuncio was given a warm welcome in Manipur where he took part in celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the creation of Imphal archdiocese. In his address to Catholics and other Christians the Pope’s representative said all Christians should work together to restore peace and harmony among the local people.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 7/11/2005 righe 25 parole 257)
