By Wesley Omondi
VATICAN, AUGUST 30, 2024 (CISA)- “The present situation of ‘a third world war fought piecemeal’ seems ‘permanent’ and unstoppable,” Pope Francis remarked as he addressed participants of the 15th meeting of the International Catholic Legislators Network (ICLN) during an audience held at the Vatican Apostolic Palace, highlighting the ongoing global crises that threaten efforts for peace and justice.
The meeting, which took place in Frascati, Rome, from August 22 to 25, 2024, gathered Catholic legislators and political leaders from around the world to discuss the pressing global issues of war, conflict, and the role of faith in governance.
The Kenyan delegation was led by Hon Moses Wetangula, Speaker of the National Assembly, who joined other legislators in reflecting on the theme of this year’s gathering: “The World at War: Permanent Crises and Conflicts – What Does It Mean for Us?”
Pope Francis emphasized the urgent need for global leaders, especially those inspired by the Gospel, to renounce war as a means of resolving conflicts. He reiterated that war not only fails to establish justice but also leaves the world in a worse state, both politically and morally. The Pope called war “a failure of politics and humanity,” urging those in positions of power to seek peaceful resolutions through dialogue, negotiation, and cooperation.
“War is a failure of politics and humanity, a shameful capitulation,” declared the Pope, underscoring the moral imperative to choose peace over conflict.
The Pope also stressed the importance of perseverance and patience in the pursuit of peace, describing these virtues as essential in a world where conflict often seems inescapable. He urged the international community to continue striving for peace through diplomacy and to reform global structures that promote cooperation and respect for international law.
“Perseverance and patience are the virtues of the valiant in the pursuit of peace,” Pope Francis reminded the legislators, encouraging them to maintain hope and determination in their work.
In his address, Pope Francis acknowledged the complex challenges faced by Catholic legislators in their daily lives, particularly in managing conflicts within their communities. He emphasized that the roots of societal conflict often lie in deeper personal struggles and that such issues can only be resolved through genuine dialogue and a commitment to justice and the common good.
“Conflicts may sometimes be unavoidable, yet they can only be resolved fruitfully in a spirit of dialogue,” the Pope observed, pointing to the need for sensitivity and understanding in conflict resolution.
As the meeting approached its conclusion, Pope Francis called upon the participants to be “witnesses of hope” in a world that often seems consumed by war and despair. He urged them to inspire future generations by embodying the principles of peace, justice, and fraternity, countering the pessimism and cynicism prevalent in today’s society.
“Our war-weary world needs to revive the spirit of hope,” the Pope encouraged, stressing the importance of being examples of hope and idealism, especially for the youth.
The ICLN meeting provided a platform for these leaders to exchange ideas and strategies for fostering peace and justice, inspired by the teachings of the Catholic Church. Speaker Moses Wetangula expressed deep honour and admiration after meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican on Saturday, August 24, 2024.
“Honoured to meet the Head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, at his Apostolic Palace popularly known as Papal Palace in Vatican City. The holy father epitomizes a true Servant Leader, going by his desire to bring hope, equality and opportunity to the less fortunate,” Wetangula stated, reflecting on the significance of the encounter.
