In a world where conflict and crisis seem to dominate the headlines, Ethiopian Cardinal Souraphiel brings a message of hope and resilience. His unwavering commitment to peace, education, and vocational training in the face of internal conflicts and humanitarian crises is truly inspiring.
Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Addis Ababa, is a beacon of light in the darkness. Despite the many challenges facing Ethiopia, he believes that hope should never be lost. In a recent interview with Fides News Agency, he emphasized the need to address the multiple conflicts within the country with determination and compassion.
Standing Strong in the Face of Adversity
Cardinal Souraphiel acknowledges the suffering caused by conflicts such as the Tigray war and ongoing crises in Oromia and Amhara. The Church, through Caritas Internationalis, is tirelessly providing aid to those in need, aiming to reach as many affected individuals as possible.
Recognizing the profound psychological and spiritual wounds left by wars, Cardinal Souraphiel underscores the importance of holistic support, particularly for vulnerable groups like women, children, and the elderly. The Church’s efforts in trauma care and psychological support are crucial in healing these deep wounds.
Unity and Hope for the Future
Cardinal Souraphiel highlights the power of unity through ecumenical and interreligious dialogue. The Church’s involvement in the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia demonstrates a commitment to collaboration in reconciliation and humanitarian assistance, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared purpose across religious lines.
Looking to the future, Cardinal Souraphiel envisions a brighter Ethiopia, grounded in its rich history of peaceful coexistence among diverse communities. Emphasizing the importance of providing vocational training to young people, he believes that investing in education and industry is key to unlocking Ethiopia’s potential for economic growth and prosperity.
As Cardinal Souraphiel eloquently puts it, “We need peace, education, and investments to strengthen our industry.” Despite the challenges, his faith in Ethiopia’s resilience and the resilience of its people shines through, offering a message of hope and determination in the face of adversity.
