France’s religious leaders appeal for peace and sustained dialogue

Religious leaders in France issued the Metz Appeal in the presence of Pope Leo XIV, calling for peace, fraternity, and reconciliation. The leaders stated that humanity is at a turning point due to war, inequality, ecological instability, and technological changes, which requires religious communities to work together to protect human dignity.

The appeal defines peace as more than the absence of war, requiring justice, solidarity between generations, and care for the environment. The leaders condemned discrimination and hate speech, specifically expressing indignation over recent attacks against places of worship and people in France based on their faith or origins. They also rejected totalitarianism, noting the historical suffering it caused in the Lorraine region.

The document declares that no religious truth or spiritual tradition should be used to justify violence or hatred. To foster peace, the leaders suggested using dialogue, prayer, and meditation to address the internal fears that lead to the rejection of others. They committed to rejecting vengeance and humiliation while focusing on education and reconciliation to heal wounds caused by violence.