The Evangelical Pope | Peace is the Victory of the Human Spirit

Each week we let Saint Pope John Paul II share meaningful signposts to spark socio-economic resolves through justice and righteousness combined with mercy and compassion; in short, love.

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               Each of us is raised into a light-filled world by our Father so that we can see where we’re going in our new grace-sovereign country. (Romans 6:4 The Message Translation)

Johannesburg International Airport Monday, 18 September 1995 | I express my heartfelt gratitude to God and thank all South Africans for their warm hospitality during my stay. I will remember all of you in my prayers, particularly the young, the sick, the needy, and everyone who continues to endure for justice and freedom.

I thank President Mandela and the civil authorities for facilitating this visit and their presence at the various events. I also appreciate the public officials and the numerous volunteers who have contributed in every possible way. Additionally, I express my gratitude to the journalists who have shared the event with audiences across Africa and the world.

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               South Africa's recent history demonstrates that peace embodies the triumph of the human spirit, choosing to transcend division and conflict in favor of forgiveness and unity.

               A country starting anew in the face of various challenges requires the cooperation and solidarity of all its citizens.

               Achieving peace requires a courage far greater than the reckless boldness of resorting to outdated violent methods.

               While the truth about past wrongs must be acknowledged and responsibility assigned where it belongs, the budding plant of a just and harmonious multiracial society must be nurtured and allowed to flourish.

               Africa, and indeed the entire world, observes your every move, recognizing that each accomplishment on the journey toward a fairer, more compassionate society is a triumph for all. It carries the hope and motivation for similar achievements in other places.

May divine blessings be upon everyone dedicated to justice and unity, regardless of differences, among the various peoples and nations of Africa!

Read more: Letter to President Barack H. Obama

Excerpted from:

Apostolic Journey of His Holiness John Paul II to Cameroon, South Africa, and Kenya, FAREWELL CEREMONY ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL II, Johannesburg International Airport (South Africa) Monday, 18 September 1995

https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/speeches/1995/september/documents/hf_jp-ii_spe_19950918_congedo-sud-africa.html