Dialogue needed in Seychelles, Indian Ocean countries, pope says

Published: 2004-11-09

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Through interreligious dialogue, social service and participation in social life, Christians contribute to peaceful coexistence even in countries where they are a small minority, Pope John Paul II said. By promoting dialogue and cooperation, Christians, "like a lighthouse on the ocean, can indicate to people of good will the path toward brotherhood and agreement, testifying in that way to the Gospel," the pope said in a Nov. 9 message to the Indian Ocean bishops' conference. The bishops of the Seychelles, Mauritius, Comoros and La Reunion, island nations off Africa's east coast, met the pope during their "ad limina" visits, which bishops make every five years to report on the status of their dioceses. Pope John Paul told them that although their countries have striking racial, religious, economic and political differences they share an obligation to strengthen the faith of Catholics, to support family life and to educate the young.

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