On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, proclaimed by the United Nations in 1981, we, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians gathered to celebrate General Chapter XXIII, feel called upon to declare the willingness to work with all our strength for the building of a culture of peace.
Our Chapter Assembly brings together 194 FMA representing all continents. Many of them are witnesses to the violence and war affecting entire populations for conflicts due to contrasting views of religious and/or ethnic differences, and live each day in darkness, famine, and terror
A look at this reality in this world, divided and wounded by political and economic interests, awakens and reaffirms in us the charismatic commitment of being, first in ourselves, builders of peace in our educating communities. We can thus testify to the active non-violence and the happiness promised by Jesus in the educational service that we carry out in the Church and in the world in favor of the new generations.
We unite our message to all the heartfelt appeals addressed by Pope Francis to those Heads of State who are more involved in the destiny of their countries. They are the first among those called to become effective creators of a culture in which respect for the rights of individuals and populations are the main reason for their government programs. With the Holy Father we affirm that social justice, dialogue and cooperation will help to banish armed conflict and to create a peaceful future.
We join with all Church Organizations, both religious and civil, to all people of good will involved in this cause for just peace, to ensure that brotherhood, mutual love, and solidarity replace indifference, selfishness, and hatred.
In this way the human family will be able to live in universal communion that responds to God’s original plan, and opens all people to an operative sharing for the common good.
We are convinced that peace is a gift of God and we invoke it in our prayers. At the same time, we believe that education is the favored way to reach it, and to create a world brotherhood. For this reason, we appeal to all educators, laity, families, and young people to assume responsibility in a renewed commitment for peace in the world.
Sr. Yvonne Reungoat FMA – Superior General
and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians gathered in the Chapter Assembly
