The Pope has called for a culture of peace and reconciliation in his message for the New Year that starts tomorrow.
Pope Benedict writes in a text title “Blessed are the Peacemakers” that each New Year brings the expectation of a better world.He asked God, the Father of humanity, to grant s concord and peace, so that the aspirations of all for a happy and prosperous life may be achieved.
The Pope underlines the need to propose and promote pedagogy of peace, calling for a rich interior life, clear and valid moral points of reference, and appropriate attitudes and lifestyles.
He writes that acts of peacemaking converge for the achievement of the common good; they create interest in peace and cultivate peace.
Pope Benedict says that thoughts, words and gestures of peace create a mentality and a culture of peace, and a respectful, honest and cordial atmosphere.
He adds that there is a need to teach people to love one another, to cultivate peace and to live with good will rather than mere tolerance.
The Pope urges people to say no to revenge, to recognize injustices, to accept apologies without looking for them, and finally, to forgive.