RABAT, March 31 (LINA) – Pope Francis has stressed the need for cooperation in giving new impetus to the building of a world of greater solidarity, marked by honest, courageous and indispensable efforts which, according to him, will promote a dialogue respectful of the richness and distinctiveness of every individual.
« In the effort to help each other overcome tensions, misunderstandings, clichés and stereotypes that generate fear and opposition, we will encourage the growth of a fruitful and respectful spirit of cooperation, » Pope Francis said.
Pope Francis, who is currently on a two-day visit in the Kingdom of Morocco, said it is essential to oppose fanaticism and that people of all religions around the world, should live as brothers.
« I am grateful that my visit offers a significant opportunity for advancing inter-religious dialogue and mutual understanding among the followers of our two religions, » Pope Francis told the King of Morocco and a crowd of thousands who had gathered at the esplanade of the Hasssan Tower in Rabat to meet him.
According the Pope, it is important for Muslims and Christians to rise and challenge fanaticism at this present time when their differences and lack of reciprocal knowledge risk being exploited as a cause for conflict and division.
« It is likewise essential that fanaticism and extremism be countered by solidarity on the part of all believers, grounded in the lofty shared values that inspire our actions, » the Pope noted.
He pointed out that it is vital to adopt dialogue and mutual and cooperation as a code of conduct and reciprocal understanding as the method and standard of religions.
Pope Francis indicated that authentic dialogue makes believers appreciate more fully the importance of religion for building bridges between people and successfully meeting the challenges thereof.
« While respecting our differences, faith in God leads us to acknowledge the eminent dignity of each human being, as well as his or her inalienable rights. We believe that God created human beings equal in rights, duties and dignity, and he calls them to live as brothers and sisters and to spread the values of goodness, love and peace, » the Pope noted.
The Pope, however, encouraged Catholics and all Christians in Morocco to be servants, promoters and defenders of human fraternity.
The Pope’s visit to Morocco, where over 99 percent of the population is Muslim, raises hope for Christians in the Kingdom to freely and openly worship.
Christians in Morocco are not banned from worshipping at churches but to practice their faith openly is said to be an invite to threats and harassment.
