Be ‘sowers of dialogue’, says Bishop in Lenten message

GUYANA

Bishop Francis Alleyne OSB of Georgetown is calling on faithful to become “sowers of dialogue and a culture of encounter” to reduce polarisation and rebuild the social fabric.

This theme echoes the vision of unity and collaboration discussed at a February meeting in Mexico attended by bishops, clergy and laypersons from the Antilles region, as well as Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Panama.

In his Lenten message, published in Catholic Standard, Bishop Alleyne highlighted that the aim of the meeting in Mexico was to promote dialogue, foster collaboration, and create a culture of mutual respect. The gathering was influenced by the teachings in Pope Francis’ Encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, which stresses the importance of promoting social structures based on justice, peace, and solidarity.

“The Gospel calls us all to promote dialogue, to foster a culture of collaboration, to reduce polarisation, and to be builders of sound social structure,” Bishop Alleyne remarked.

In his message, Bishop Alleyne reflected on key elements from the Encyclical, offering a guide “into the ways we are all called to live and witness our Christian vocation.”

1. Promote dialogue and encounter: Engage in open, respectful dialogue to understand and appreciate different perspectives, fostering a culture of mutual respect and encounter.
2. Acknowledge human dignity: Recognise and uphold the inherent dignity of every person, ensuring all individuals are treated with equality and respect.
3. Support the vulnerable: Prioritise the needs of the poor, marginalised and vulnerable, ensuring they are included and supported within society.
4. Encourage social friendship: Build genuine social friendships that transcend borders and differences, promoting a sense of global solidarity and community.
5. Reject violence and war: Advocate for peace and non-violence, rejecting war and the death penalty as solutions to conflicts.
6. Foster political charity: Encourage political leaders to act with love and charity, focusing on the common good and the well-being of all people.
7. Promote integral human development: Support policies and initiatives that promote the holistic development of individuals and communities, addressing economic, social, and cultural needs.
8. Strengthen international cooperation: Advocate for stronger international institutions and cooperation to address global challenges and promote justice and peace.
9. Embrace religious dialogue: Engage in inter-religious dialogue to build bridges, promote understanding and work together for the common good.
10. Cultivate kindness and forgiveness: Encourage acts of kindness and forgiveness, breaking the cycle of revenge and fostering reconciliation and healing.

These values, Bishop Alleyne emphasised, resonate with the ongoing synodal process and are key to being “people and pilgrims of hope” in the year of Jubilee “and beyond.”