AFRICA/BURKINA FASO - "Remain in Africa to transform it into a prosperous land": Bishops' appeal to young people

Friday, 24 May 2019 bishops local churches migrants

BURKINA FASO

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Ouagadougou (Agenzia Fides) - Giving concreteness to evangelical hope, watching over young people. This is the commitment undertaken by the Bishops who participated in the third Plenary Assembly of Bishops of West Africa (RECOWA-CERAO), which ended in Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso (see Fides 22/5/2019)
"In the current situation of our continent, the Church must be a sign of hope" says the final document, sent to Agenzia Fides. "In a special way, we urge to give young people their rightful place in the Church and in society", in particular "raising awareness of the dangers of irregular migration".
"In this context, we cannot remain silent on the phenomenon of migration, especially in Europe. Our hearts as shepherds and fathers suffer in seeing boats overloaded with young people, women and children who sink in the waves of the Mediterranean". Addressing the young people of their countries, the Bishops say they "understand your thirst for happiness and well-being that our countries do not offer you. Unemployment, poverty remain evils that humiliate and upset consciences". "However - the message continues - this situation must not lead you to sacrifice your life along dangerous roads and uncertain destinations. Do not be fooled by false promises that will lead you to slavery and an illusory future! With hard work and perseverance you can succeed in Africa and, more importantly, make this continent a prosperous land".
Addressing politicians, the Bishops exhort "to combat everything that endangers the common good and undermines the dignity of the human person: corruption, mismanagement and human trafficking in all its forms. Furthermore, you must continue your efforts to ensuring the safety of the life and property of your fellow citizens "by referring to the terrorism that threatens the States of the region. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 24/5/2019)