Vatican City, Oct 7, 2009 / 23:12 pm
The president of the Council of Episcopal Conferences of Europe, Cardinal Peter Erdö, said this week that although the Church’s voice often does not make the front page, it is always “stronger than any other noise, lie, propaganda or manipulation.”
During his remarks at the Synod of Bishops of Africa, the cardinal underscored that “Christ is the light of the world. He also illuminates the shadows of human history, and no darkness, no hatred, no evil can overcome him. In Him is our hope.”
“Although the voice of the Church and the testimony of each Christian seems weak, although that voice does not often make the front page of the major newspapers, this subtle voice is stronger than any noise, lie, propaganda or manipulation. We are witnesses of the strength of the martyrs,” he said.
“We Catholics of Europe,” the cardinal continued, “have learned from our history to be attentive to the destiny of African Christians, and we have learned as well to appreciate your fidelity, your testimony and the African martyrs who give lives—year after year in troubling numbers—for Christ and for His Church, and for us as well.”
“The Church in Africa deserves our gratitude and our profound esteem,” he said in conclusion.