For some months the Church and the whole international community has been following with great anxiety and profound sadness the escalation of violence in Syria, where weapons seem to have replaced dialogue.

 

We hope that the country’s authorities, the people and all believers, of whatever religion, may look towards God and find the path which will bring an end to all hostilities, lay down arms and embark on the path of dialogue, reconciliation and peace. This conflict can only bring inevitable grief, destruction and serious consequences for the noble Syrian people. War is a dead end. Happiness can only be achieved together, never through the misuse of power by one group against another.

 

The next few days can be decisive for the outcome of this crisis. Therefore we exhort all Europe’s Christians to increase their commitment in prayer for peace in that region. Our faith leads us to hope that a solution to the crisis is possible, a solution which is fair and constructive, respectful of everyone’s interests. It is necessary to find once again the room for a dialogue of peace; it is never too late to understand each other, to negotiate and build together a common future.

 

We are sure that, with God’s help, good sense may prevail and produce a peaceful living in harmony in truth, justice, love, freedom and respect for all minorities, especially the nation’s Christians.

 

 

St. Gallen, 19 July 2012

  

 

Péter Card. Erdő, Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest and President of CCEE