Mozambique’s Catholic Bishops have expressed gratitude for the solidarity from their counterparts in Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe, following a prayer initiative for peace amid increasing violence from post-election unrest. This acknowledgement highlights the importance of spiritual support and unity within the Catholic community in addressing the challenges faced by Mozambique.
On January 8, 2025, Mozambique’s Catholic Bishops expressed profound gratitude to their counterparts in Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe for their solidarity, particularly through the recent Triduum Prayer Initiative aimed at fostering peace in Mozambique, afflicted by violence after the October 9 presidential elections. The bishops noted that this spiritual support serves as a beacon of hope and signifies the unity within the Catholic community across nations.
In their statement, the members of the Episcopal Conference of Mozambique (CEM) acknowledged the anguish experienced by the Mozambican people amidst the escalating post-election turmoil. They emphasized that the prayers and support from their Angolan and São Toméan brothers and sisters resonate deeply, reflecting shared compassion among the faithful. This collective prayer has crucially addressed the pain of those suffering, especially during such tumultuous times marked by violence and civil unrest.
The statement underlined the recent challenges Mozambique faces, including significant street protests following the election results, in which the ruling party Frelimo was declared the winner amidst claims of electoral fraud. Reports indicate that these tensions have claimed over 130 lives as violence escalated. The Constitutional Council’s confirmation of Frelimo’s victory has exacerbated the crisis, with opposition leader Venancio Mondlane fleeing due to safety concerns but planning a return on January 9.
Organized by the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) of CEAST, the prayer initiative concluded on January 3 with a Vigil for Peace. In his homily, Fr. Celestino Epalanga highlighted the dire implications of violence, calling for reflection on the vulnerabilities faced by innocent lives caught in such strife. His message underscored a commitment to non-violence as a vital choice, essential for healing and progress in Mozambique.
Amidst this context, the solidarity expressed by the Angolan and São Toméan Catholic communities stands as a testament to the shared commitment to peace, echoing the urgency of collective prayers for relief and healing in Mozambique.
The article discusses the ongoing political and social turbulence in Mozambique following the contentious presidential elections held on October 9, 2024. With the ruling party, Frelimo, continuing to retain power amidst allegations of electoral fraud and subsequent violence, the Catholic Bishops of Mozambique recognized and appreciated the support of their counterparts in Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe. Through a prayer initiative aimed at fostering peace, the bishops comment on the significance of spiritual solidarity in overcoming the challenges faced by their nation amid escalating violence and discord.
In conclusion, the solidarity demonstrated by the Catholic Bishops of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe through prayer initiatives provides crucial support to Mozambique during a period of political unrest and violence. The Episcopal Conference of Mozambique acknowledges this spiritual bond as a source of hope, reflecting the importance of unity in the face of adversity. As the situation unfolds, such collaborative efforts remain vital in striving for peace and justice in the region.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
