Pope recalls Rwandan genocide, says love leads to social perfection

Published: 2007-05-22

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Remembering the victims of Rwanda's genocide, Pope Benedict XVI said love is the only force that can lead people toward social and personal perfection and direct society toward doing good. The pope made the statement in a message sent to Rwandan President Paul Kagame to commemorate the 13th anniversary of the 1994 genocide. The message was sent to the Rwandan president in early April, but because the 2007 national day of mourning fell on Holy Saturday, it was only released publicly in late May. Rwandans mark April 7 as a national day of mourning for the victims of the genocide. Although baptisms are usually performed at the Easter Vigil, as a sign of unity with their fellow Rwandan citizens and a sign of respect for those being mourned April 7, the bishops of Rwanda postponed the administration of sacraments that are generally accompanied by family celebrations.

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