ASIA/CAMBODIA - Bishops appeal for truce and peace

Friday, 12 December 2025 peace prayer displaced persons local churches

Catholic Cambodia

CAMBODIA

2025-12-12
Bishops appeal for truce and peace

2025-12-12
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Apostolic Prefect Figaredo: "The displaced cannot return home; we are working for an unarmed and disarming peace between Thailand and Cambodia"

Phnom Penh (Agenzia Fides) – “We call for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of dialogue and diplomacy to find solutions that promote the common good and true peace,” wrote the bishops of Cambodia in an appeal published today, December 12, as hostilities continue along the border between Thailand and Cambodia. The message is signed by Olivier Schmitthaeusler, Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh; Pierre Suon Hangly, Apostolic Administrator of Kompong Cham and Coadjutor Vicar of Phnom Penh; and Father Enrique Figaredo, Apostolic Prefect of Battambang.
The appeal, sent to Fides, states: “As leaders of the Catholic Church in Cambodia, we express our deep sorrow and concern over the renewed hostilities on the border between Thailand and Cambodia. In these difficult times, we are reminded of the words of Jesus: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God’ (Mt 5:9).”
“We believe that every human being is created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity and love,” the bishops emphasize in a text that was also sent across the border to Thai Catholics. “We pray for all the victims, soldiers and civilians who have lost their lives, and express our solidarity with all displaced families, especially the children, the sick, and the vulnerable.”
The bishops exhort the faithful to “be peacemakers, to promote understanding and respect, and especially during this time of preparation for Christmas, as we await Jesus, the Prince of Peace, to pray for peace. We also invite you to join various efforts and initiatives to support soldiers and the thousands of displaced people, especially the children who cannot attend school.”
The message expresses the hope that “our shared humanity and our commitment to peace will lead us to a better future, in which love and compassion overcome hatred and division,” and asks for the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 12/12/2025)