Summary of Pope Francis’ address on the morning of September 14 in Nur-Sultan to mark the opening of the Seventh Conference of Leaders of Global and Traditional Religions.
Monsignor Joji Vadakara, Vatican City
The importance of mutual brotherhood and love was highlighted by Pope Francis’ speech at the opening of the Seventh Conference of Leaders of Global and Traditional Religions in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, on the morning of September 14. Describing his thirty-eighth apostolic journey as a pilgrimage of dialogue and peace, the Pope began his homily with an address to brothers and sisters, speaking of the sisterhood that unites us as children of the same heaven.
Those who are moving towards the same heaven
The Pope continued his sermon by reminding us of the fact that we, as creatures, are individuals moving towards the same heavenly goal. Papa said that our life goals should not be narrowed down to personal interests and brotherhood should be highlighted, reminding us that we can grow only with others and with the help of others.
Kazakhstan of Associations
The Pope reminded religious leaders and religious representatives that Kazakhstan is a land that is a gathering place for many travelers. Many histories, ideas, beliefs and hopes have converged in this land. The Pope wished that this soil could become a meeting place for those who are still far away through human culture.
Abai, the poet and religious unity
As he used the musical instrument dombra in his homily the previous day, the Pope referred to Abai, a poet who can be called the father of modern literature on Kazakh soil, for his homily. Pope highlighted the deep religious thought in his writings and the nobility of the Kazakh people. People see people of religious faith as examples of an active spirit and a clear mind, and the world expects that from us, the Pope said, quoting Abai. Referring to the evil of extreme religious fundamentalism, the Pope reminded us that it only serves to corrupt all forms of religious belief. We are all called to walk together with our eyes fixed on heaven. What the world needs today is an open and tolerant attitude.
Religious freedom and humanity
The Pope emphasized that religious freedom is very important for a true humanity and holistic development. We should live our faith without imposing our faith on others or hindering the faith of others. Conversion or coercion of religious beliefs is not compatible with human freedom. We are all created free.
Crisis and unity
The Pope reminded us that pandemics like Covid-19 have clarified our call for mutual cooperation. Such crises demand mutual solidarity and cooperation from us. The Pope reminded us that as believers, we are called to be preachers and witnesses of unity beyond racial, national and religious differences.
Peace and brotherhood and common home earth
We must not forget our duty to strive for peace in the face of wars and conflicts. As far as global religions are concerned, they have a duty to play an important role for world peace and harmony among peoples. The God of peace leads us in the ways of peace. Everyone should strive to create greater unity through dialogue and mutual respect. Rather than weapons, the pope called for more investment in education.
Exhorting that every human being is important, the Pope reminded us that we must all take up the challenge of mutual brotherhood. Wars, poverty and climate change are causing mass migration of people. We should be able to look at other people through the eyes of God the Creator and see our brothers in them.
As we move forward together, the protection of our common home, the Earth, must be at the fore. We should not forget to not interfere with the nature with destructive attitude and to preserve the nature keeping in mind the intention of the creator for the future generation.
The Pope wished that religious beliefs and global religions help us to move forward together in mutual brotherhood and friendship. While preserving our personal differences, we should be able to behave responsibly and openly with others, away from false friendships and false peace.
The Pope praised Kazakhstan’s efforts to bring people together, invite dialogue and create friendships.