Catholic Bishop in Mauritius Urges Youths to “rise above culture of indifference, violence”, Foster Justice for All

Port Louis, 16 March, 2025 / 3:00 PM

Bishop Jean Michaël Durhône of the Catholic Diocese of Port-Louis in Mauritius has cautioned youths in the Indian Ocean Island nation against the “culture of indifference and violence” and called upon them to instead work towards justice and peace.

In his Lenten Pastoral letter issued Sunday, March 16, Bishop Durhône laments the growing apathy among young people in the face of social injustices and escalating violence in communities.

“Our society is plagued by division, inequality, and violence. I urge you, the youth, to rise above this culture of indifference and violence and become agents of justice and reconciliation,” the Local Ordinary of Port Louis says.

He emphasizes the importance of young people in transforming society and building a future rooted in compassion and equality, saying, “The Church relies on your energy and creativity to foster justice for all, especially the marginalized and the voiceless.”

The Mauritian Catholic Church leader, who was consecrated Bishop of Port Louis Diocese in August 2023 also reflects on the importance of faith and prayer in guiding young people toward positive action.

“Through prayer and the teachings of Christ, you will find the strength and wisdom to confront the challenges facing our society and to work tirelessly for the common good,” he says.

Addressing the need for political engagement, Bishop Durhône urges young people in Mauritius to be “vigilant and proactive in holding leaders accountable while promoting values rooted in the Gospel.”

“We cannot remain passive spectators in the face of injustice, corruption, and social inequality. As young Catholics, you are called to be the voice of the voiceless and defenders of human dignity,” he says.

The Mauritian Catholic Church leader notes that political and civic awareness is not limited to election periods; it should be ongoing and part of daily life.

“The political and civic conscience is already embedded within us and awakens at different moments of our lives,” Bishop Durhône says, and continues, “I believe that you, young people, have extraordinary potential that deserves to be valued. I express my deep conviction that you have much to offer our beloved Republic of Mauritius.”

Bishop Durhône describes politics as “a collective and permanent action that affects both daily life and the destiny of humanity” and citizenship as involving the respect of common rules that ensure the well-being of individuals and the environment.

“Political action aims to promote living together as brothers and sisters, regardless of differences,” the Catholic Church leader says.

For him, “Denouncing corruption does not condemn politics as a whole. It is a noble and difficult task that requires courage and dedication to justice and solidarity.”

Bishop Durhône urges young people to promote peace and non-violence, both in social settings and on digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Making reference to St. John Paul II's 1995 message to youth,  he urges youths to “reject narrow-minded and violent ideologies, reject all forms of excessive nationalism and intolerance.”

“It is in such attitudes that violence and war subtly take root. You are entrusted with the mission of forging new paths for fraternity among peoples and building a united human family,” he adds.

Bishop Durhône encourages young people to participate in decision-making bodies such as the Youth Pastoral Council and Animation Teams in the Church.

“Our nation needs bridges, not walls. Let us work hand in hand, guided by the principles of love and justice, to build a society where everyone is treated with respect and dignity,” he appeals in his Lenten Pastoral letter issued March 16.

Bishop Durhône implores, “May the Holy Spirit enlighten your minds and strengthen your hearts as you embark on this journey of transformation and service.”