Recently, a meeting was held in the Principality of Monaco with priests, religious men and women, and pastoral leaders, where the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations issued a solemn warning. Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher emphasized the importance of not forgetting the devastating toll of wars and conflicts, which continue to claim lives and destroy communities. He also drew attention to the alarming reality of the Mediterranean becoming a graveyard for refugees.
By Isabella Piro
During the gathering, Archbishop Gallagher highlighted the shared theme of “hope” between the upcoming Jubilee of 2025 and the diplomatic efforts of the Holy See. The event took place in Monaco, where he was invited by Prince Albert II to celebrate the feast of the local patron saint, Devota.
The conflict in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Africa
Archbishop Gallagher led a Eucharistic celebration at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and met with clergy to discuss the theme of hope in the midst of ongoing conflicts worldwide. He stressed the importance of offering spiritual responses to the temporal evils affecting many countries, including Ukraine, the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Yemen. Additionally, he expressed concern for the humanitarian crises unfolding in Africa, particularly in regions like Sudan, the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, Mozambique, and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Without religious freedom, there is no true peace
The Archbishop emphasized the significance of religious freedom as a fundamental condition for lasting peace. He highlighted the Holy See’s diplomatic efforts focused on peace, fraternity, environmental protection, migration regulation, human rights defense, and combatting human trafficking.
War victims are not statistics but human lives and shattered destinies
Archbishop Gallagher recalled Pope Francis’ appeals to end global conflicts, emphasizing the need to remember and acknowledge the human lives affected by wars. He urged the world not to let wars fade into oblivion and to provide global attention and solidarity to the victims.
The Mediterranean must not become a graveyard
Addressing the migration crisis, Archbishop Gallagher echoed Pope Francis’ call to prevent the Mediterranean from turning into a graveyard for refugees. He emphasized the importance of welcoming migrants with respect and collaboration with their countries of origin to ensure dignified living conditions for all.
The Holy See promotes the common good, not particular interests
The Archbishop stressed the Holy See’s commitment to promoting the common good over specific interests. He called for actions such as canceling foreign debt for the poorest countries, supporting ecological transitions, and seeking lasting solutions to conflicts.
Promoting a culture of encounter
Archbishop Gallagher advocated for a culture of encounter that fosters dialogue, even among adversaries, and seeks to resolve crises without humiliating any party involved. He expressed hope for a broader adoption of this approach, working towards a just and lasting peace based on the pillars of truth, forgiveness, freedom, and justice.
Overall, the message delivered during the meeting in Monaco emphasized the importance of hope, solidarity, and diplomatic efforts in addressing global challenges and promoting a more peaceful and just world.
