“Only non-violence can lead to lasting peace”: Religious Leaders in Mauritius

They add, “Greed and lust for power have led to bloody wars that end countless lives and the destruction of beautiful cities.”

“Fortunately, there are people throughout the ages who, without violence, have changed the face of the world, and it's these people we celebrate,” officials of CoR say.

They add, “This day could be the ideal moment to meditate on the virtues of bravery, compassion, perseverance and non-violence.”

Established by the UN General Assembly in June 2007, the International Day of Non-violence  is an occasion to disseminate the message of non-violence through education and public awareness. 

The day is observed yearly on October 2, the birthday of the leader of the Indian independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence, Mahatma Gandhi.

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In their October 2 statement, the religious leaders in the Indian Ocean Island nation say, “Gandhi's non-violent actions have left an indelible imprint on people's memories for over 50 years.”

“His figure embodies peace and non-violence in the face of conflict,” members of CoR say.

Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.