God’s name must not be abused to justify war and violence - Cardinal Vallini

(Oct. 26, 2011) “At this critical moment in the history of people, knowing the truth about God is essential, so that His name is never misused to justify war and violence, but on the contrary is the source that facilitates mutual recognition and respect among peoples and nations in search of reason, peace and justice,” said the Vicar of Rome’s diocese on Wednesday. Welcoming the Pope at a prayer service held in Vatican’s Audience Hall, Cardinal Agostino Vallini told the Pope that the Diocese of Rome gratefully accepted his invitation to participate in the prayer service in preparation for the “Day of reflection, dialogue and prayer for peace and justice in the world,” convoked by him in Assisi on Thursday and they all pray that it will be spiritually fruitful for all Humanity. The Cardinal said “Twenty five years after the first call issued by your predecessor Blessed John Paul II, Your Holiness wished to invite to the city of St. Francis, representatives of world religions, so that in respect for differences of belief, they are encouraged to make every effort to promote peace and solidarity among peoples.” Cardinal Vallini said that men, who profess no religion but who seek the truth will also participate at the Assisi meeting.. The yearning for peace and justice is present in the heart of every human being and cannot be separated from the common search for truth” he added. Cardinal Vallini said “Today, the Church of Rome, together with thousands of other brothers and sisters hailing from different dioceses, are gathered around the Successor of St. Peter – our Bishop, to be enlightened by Christ Who became man for us, to open the world to the hope that never deludes.
Cardinal Vallini concluded with a prayer to the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, that she may obtain for Humanity the precious gift of peace.