Catholic Bishops in Liberia Urge Reconciliation Amid Societal Divisions

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Liberia has issued a Lenten Pastoral message emphasizing the need for reconciliation and personal conversion amid societal divisions. They identified these divisions as barriers to progress, highlighted concerns over governance and budget allocation, and urged for collaboration among governmental branches to promote the common good.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Liberia (CABICOL) has expressed concern regarding divisions within the nation, calling for personal conversion and societal reconciliation during Lent. In their 2025 Lenten Pastoral message, they identified political, tribal, and regional divisions as significant hurdles to progress in Liberia. They stated, “For decades, we have been battling the ‘old age demons of division,’ hampering our progress towards reconciliation.”

The Bishops emphasized that these divisions foster favoritism and discrimination, ultimately impeding the country’s advancement. They noted that while societal conflict is unavoidable, ideological disputes leading to violence are particularly harmful. CABICOL President Bishop Anthony Fallah Borwah highlighted that the familial divisions are equally troubling and encouraged forgiveness among family members, saying, “No human family is perfect. Rather, we are all called to perfection.”

Despite acknowledging improvements in the democratic process since the civil crisis, the Bishops raised concerns about recent violent incidents, including the December 18, 2024, arson at the Capitol Hill building. They warned that such violence poses a threat to the gains made in democracy, stating, “are concerning and have the propensity of not only undermining our democratic gains but even derailing all that we have achieved thus far if care is not taken.”

In addition, the Bishops addressed issues regarding the national budget, noting inappropriate allocations favoring individual interests over the common good. They urged the Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary branches to work collaboratively for the benefit of the populace. They reiterated their commitment to reconciliation, accountability, and justice, stating, “Looking, therefore into the ‘signs of the times’ and hearing from deep down in the recesses of our hearts, the voices and ‘blood’ of many of our brothers and sisters, victims of our senseless civil crisis, we would like to reiterate our unchanging position on reconciliation, accountability, and justice.”

In conclusion, the Catholic Bishops in Liberia have voiced significant concerns regarding the ongoing divisions affecting the nation, particularly during Lent. They called for a commitment to reconciliation and societal unity, highlighting the dangers posed by political, tribal, and familial conflicts. Furthermore, they urged the government to prioritize the common good in budgetary allocations and remain vigilant against violence that threatens democracy. Their message underscores the essential need for forgiveness, accountability, and justice within the Liberian society.

Original Source: www.aciafrica.org