ETHIOPIA: Cardinal Berhaneyesus Expresses Gratitude for Ethiopia Peace Talk in South Africa
His eminence Berhaneyesus Demerew Cardinal Souraphiel, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Ethiopia (CBCE)
Bezawit Assefa
On November 3rd,2022, His eminence Berhaneyesus Demerew Cardinal Souraphiel, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Ethiopia (CBCE) sent congratulatory message to all Ethiopians for the peace negotiations and agreement held in South Africa.
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” Cardinal Berhaneyesus a member of the Congregation of the Mission (CM) and Archbishop of Addis Ababa commended all those who have struggled incessantly to achieve this result and who have cooperated for its success.
He further congratulated the catholic community who were able to see the fruits of their Prayers, fasting, penance and vows.
“Peace is not achieved by the principle of defeat,” His Eminence said and continued, “the lives of Jesus and the Saints has taught Christians that the Seed of Peace must first die for it to grow and bear fruit. The spirit of peace cultivates the spirit of humility and forgiveness rather than conflict and dispute.”
For the good conclusion and implementation of the agreement, the Cardinal asked the elders, religious leaders, government officials all concerned persons and people of good will to ensure the lasting peace of the country.
During the feast of Holy Savior November 6th,2022 where thousands of Catholics attended the Holy Mass, the Cardinal also thanked all neighboring countries, the African Union and all individual who took part and the initiative to mediate the reconciliation process towards the unity of Ethiopia.
On same day, His Eminence prayed for those who died before the negotiation, for those who shed their blood in vain, for refugees, those undergoing medical treatment and all those who are on the battlefield.
In his message, Cardinal Berhaneyesus appreciated all friends around the world who have been looking forward to this day and asked for continued support in all possible ways.
“May the spirit of friendliness and reconciliation prevail among our people and that the displaced parties can return to their respective places and be strong in your prayers,” his eminence prayed and concluded urging for peace, dialogue and reconciliations.
The peace talks that took place Tuesday, October 25 and will run till Sunday, October 30th, aimed to mediate on the challenges facing the second most populous country in Africa and to come up with sustainable solution to the conflict.
