Appalled at violence
THE 29 catholic bishops of PNG and Solomon Islands (SI) who gathered in Port Moresby last week for their 2008 annual conference expressed concern at the level of violence which pervades the two countries.
They said these violent criminal acts of domestic, community and personal attacks being experienced widely throughout the two nations are eating into the very fabric of their Melanesian societies.
In a joint statement released yesterday, the bishops said: “Melanesians are known as smiling, happy and welcoming people, who enjoy showing hospitality to visitors to their shores.
“So where do these killings, gang rapes, child abuse, and violent home robberies come from?” They added that such violent actions come from inside each person who is himself unhappy, unfulfilled and angry, who spontaneously reacts in a violent way to even the slightest provocation.
The statment added: “But it need not be this way. We must never forget that Christ teaches us that every human being is created in the image of God. Therefore, every person must be respected in all circumstances, whether they are men, women, or children, innocent or guilty.
“Moreover, Christ teaches us that violence will never end if we respond with violence (Mt: 26:52). Consequently, we invite all who feel motivated to violence to act in a better way.”
The bishops called on all individuals in both PNG and SI, urging them that “using our freedom of action is known as using the basic principles of non-violence”. It also urged people to:
lHave respect for yourself as being precious in God’s eyes;
lCare for others as you would want to be cared for;
lExpect the best of others and of yourself instead of being suspicious;
l Think before reacting to provocation; and
l Seek a non-violent solution which satisfies both victim and the perpetrator.
They said many communities have examined these principles and put them into action, and have achieved a more peaceful social life.
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