Pope addresses West African bishops with ‘small, fragile’ flocks

November 10, 2014

Pope Francis addressed the bishops of four West African nations with significant Muslim populations and encourage them in their witness to Christ.

Quoting Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis told the bishops of Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Senegal on November 10 that “if all of us who believe in God desire to promote reconciliation, justice and peace, we must work together to banish every form of discrimination, intolerance and religious fundamentalism.”

The Pontiff also called upon the bishops to offer the faithful a “solid doctrinal and spiritual formation” so that they may live in accordance with the Gospel, to be attentive to family ministry, and to show concern for their seminarians and priests.

“Some of your churches are small, fragile, but they are courageous and generous in announcing the faith,” he added.

 

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Further information:

• Visita "ad Limina Apostolorum" dei Presuli della Conferenza Episcopale di Senegal, Mauritania, Capo Verde e Guinea-Bissau (Holy See Press Office)