POPE WELCOMES BISHOPS OF THE GAMBIA, LIBERIA AND SIERRA LEONE

VATICAN CITY, FEB 15, 2003 (VIS) - The bishops of the Gambia, Liberia and Sierra Leone were received today by the Holy Father at the conclusion of their "ad limina" visit. In his talk to them in English, the Pope highlighted the challenges facing the prelates in forming young people and in defending the sanctity of life and the family, as well as the humanitarian trials they face, especially the "tragic situation of millions of refugees and displaced persons."

"Catholics form a very small part of the population in your countries," admitted the Pope, "and at times the social, political and even religious climate makes evangelization and interreligious dialogue difficult." He encouraged the bishops to continue to "proclaim the Gospel's power to transform hearts and lives." He underscored that the contribution of Catholics in all milieux of society, especially their social welfare programs "are praised by people and government alike."
The Holy Father pointed out that "this same word of God can also act as a fundamental point of departure for essential dialogue with the followers of African traditional religions and Islam. It is your task to continue to foster an attitude of mutual respect which avoids religious indifference and militant fundamentalism."

He stressed the care and commitment that must be given by the Church to "the formation of your youth and laity. The seduction of material things, and the dangerous attraction of cults and secret societies which promise wealth and power can hold great appeal, especially for young people." He said that youth must be made to realize "they are truly a 'new generation of builders', called to work towards 'a civilization of love'."

John Paul II then turned to the family, calling it "a fundamental element of African culture and civilization. ... Unfortunately the Gospel of life .... is being threatened in your countries by widespread polygamy, divorce, abortion, prostitution, human trafficking and a contraceptive mentality. These same factors contribute ... to sexual activity leading to the spread of AIDS, a pandemic which cannot be ignored."

"As the Church in Africa does all in her power to defend the sanctity of the family and its pre-eminent place in African society, she is called above all to proclaim loudly and clearly the liberating message of authentic Christian love" and to emphasize that "true love is chaste love." The Church, he asserted, must be "the leader in the sustained effort to promote programs which foster authentic respect for the dignity and rights of women."

The Holy Father said he was pleased by strides made in restoring peace but said he was worried by developments which could threaten it. He turned his attention to the humanitarian challenges facing the bishops, noting "with concern the tragic situation of millions of refugees and displaced peoples." He urged the prelates "to work tirelessly for reconciliation and to bear authentic witness to unity by gestures of solidarity and support for the victims of decades of violence."

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