CABICOL’s 2025 Lenten Pastoral message emphasizes the need for reconciliation in Liberia amidst political and societal divisions. The Bishops call for personal conversion, critique governmental budgetary allocations, and warn against violence undermining democracy. They advocate for unity and justice to heal the nation’s wounds from its civil crisis.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Liberia (CABICOL) has addressed the divisions affecting their nation in their 2025 Lenten Pastoral message. They called for personal and societal conversion towards reconciliation, stressing that divisions along political, tribal, and regional lines are obstructing progress. They highlighted the longstanding issue of the “old age demons of division,” which have adversely influenced unity and advancement in Liberia.
CABICOL emphasized that all individuals are created in God’s image and possess inalienable rights including life, liberty, and freedom of expression. They condemned how these divisions have led to nepotism, favoritism, and discrimination, which undermine the societal fabric. While acknowledging conflict as part of society, they warned that interpersonal conflicts resulting in violence hinder national growth.
The Bishops expressed concern over the impact of divisions within families, which strain relationships among spouses, parents, and children. Bishop Anthony Fallah Borwah stated that no family is perfect, and they urged individuals to seek forgiveness, acknowledging that division offends God. They also recognized the progress made in Liberia’s democratic process since the civil crisis, but warned that recent violent incidents, like the Capitol Hill arson, threaten these achievements.
The CABICOL members expressed concern that continued violence could undermine their democratic gains. They also critiqued the national budget, pointing out a disproportionate allocation favoring recurring governmental expenses over development and social welfare. CABICOL urged government branches to collaborate for the common good.
Finally, acknowledging the suffering endured during the civil crisis, CABICOL restated their commitment to reconciliation, accountability, and justice, emphasizing the need to listen to the voices of those impacted by conflict.
The Catholic Bishops of Liberia have urged for reconciliation and societal conversion in light of divisive issues affecting the nation. They highlighted the detrimental effects of such divisions on families, governance, and societal progress. The Bishops called for unity in addressing budgetary and governance challenges to ensure that Liberia’s democratic advancements are preserved. Their message underscores the importance of healing and accountability as ways forward for the country.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
