Central African Republic: Muslim youth have ‘laid down their weapons’ because of papal visit
December 15, 2015
The Central African Republic’s leading prelate has called upon the faithful to imitate Pope Francis and become “pilgrims of peace,” the Catholic Information Service for Africa reported.
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For three years, the nation has been torn by a conflict that has pitted Islamist Séléka militias against Anti-balaka militias composed largely of Christians and animists. The nation’s hierarchy has stated that the Anti-balaka militias are not Christian organizations and has denounced violence on all sides.
Archbishop Dieudonné Nzapalainga, who together with the nation’s leading Muslim cleric has pleaded for peace, visited the capital’s dangerous PK5 Muslim enclave and said that the recent papal visit “profoundly” affected Muslim youth.
“Significantly, the Muslim youth of the PK5 district have laid down their weapons to speak with their Christian brothers,” said Archbishop Nzapalainga.
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Posted by: 1Jn416 -
Dec. 17, 2015 7:20 PM ET USA
There is a difference between Islamic terrorists and an Islamic militia fighting a civil war. Very different goals. Western politicians may be naive, but African bishops in the Central Africa Republic, an extremely poor and war-torn nation? I doubt it. I have my issues with Pope Francis and his problematic statements, but he does have a willingness to go to dangerous places and work to improve the situation. I hope and pray that what he has begun takes root and flourishes in peace.
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Posted by: jacquebquique5708 -
Dec. 15, 2015 10:47 AM ET USA
The naivete' on the part of Catholics continues to be astounding.
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Posted by: feedback -
Dec. 15, 2015 9:47 AM ET USA
The main problem with Islamic terrorists, which no official dares to point out, is that they believe in Heavenly reward for killing the "infidels." That alone makes them completely undeterred and unpredictable.
