| We
are gratified in particular, to note
that the work of this conference has
been concerned purely with religious,
spiritual matters free from extraneous
political considerations.
This is only fitting and proper,
for the church, as a symbol of peace,
must follow the path of peace in all
parts of the world. For world peace
can only be made abiding by the grace
of God, through the prayers of the
Holy Fathers. The truth of this
cardinal fact is evident to all
mankind.
Therefore, it has become the noble
responsibility of Christians, and
peoples of other faiths and their
leaders throughout the world, to pray
and to work hard for the preservation
of world peace.
We have always been religious, ever
since childhood, ever since the day
our father, Ras Makonnen, taught us
the commandment of Our Lord the
Creator.
But we don't consider our religion
alone valid and have granted the
people the freedom to observe any
religion they please.
We believe in the reunification of
the churches, which is why we were so
happy to meet Pope Paul VI during our
voyage to Italy. We were greatly taken
with him, we judged him a man of
superior capacity, especially as
regards his intention to work towards
church unity.
He received us with great
friendliness. |