Farewell Ceremony, Central African Republic

On Wednesday, 14 August 1985, at Bangui-M'Poko International Airport, the Holy Father bade farewell to the Central African Republic, expressing his joy at the Church's vitality in their country.

1. I am well aware that I have only just begun my pastoral visit to your beloved country. I do not know if Providence will permit me to return for longer. But the time I spent in Bangui was very intense, and I will particularly remember the Eucharistic celebration in which the fervent prayers of many Central Africans were expressed. I joyfully received the testimony of this Church's vitality, and I was able to express my encouragement to all its apostolic workers. From Rome, I will often think in prayer of this African land and the Christian harvest it continues to prepare.

I sincerely thank all those who made this visit possible. I am pleased to reiterate my gratitude to His Excellency the President of the Republic for the kindness with which he welcomed and accompanied me throughout this day. My gratitude also goes to all those who kindly contributed as leaders, coordinators, or staff of the organization, security, and stewardship, as well as generous personnel serving the Church.

2. To your country, Mr. President, I renew my cordial greetings. With this visit, I wished to express the Holy See's esteem, respect, and encouragement. With you, and with all those concerned for the common good of the nation and the happiness of all their compatriots, we hope that the Central African Republic will live in a spirit of total reconciliation and peace, both internally and externally, and that it will mobilize all its forces to devote itself—in a climate of freedom and loyal cooperation—to the development of its resources and the integral human advancement of all its citizens. We hope that it will gradually resolve its problems, which are sometimes real challenges; we mentioned agricultural education and youth development. We hope that the Central African Republic will benefit from the benevolence and solidarity of other countries, particularly African countries. And let us not forget the contribution it itself can make to certain vexing problems in Africa. I think of the refugees in danger who need to find a generous welcome from their neighbors in a spirit of peace and neutrality, and a measure of integration, until they can—as is desirable—return to their country and reunite with their families. I know that a good number of them have found the hospitality they longed for here.

3. Catholics form a significant portion of the population. They are determined to combat the evils that could paralyze the country's progress and hinder justice and peace. They reach out to their brothers and sisters, whether Christian or not, to act with respect for others, honesty, mutual assistance, and the common good. They know, despite their conscious limitations, that certain virtues go hand in hand with their faith: this morning we meditated on this spirit of service and love, which comes to us from Christ and is at work everywhere, in the universal Church, in whose name I have come to bear witness. On this point, may they always encounter understanding, trust, and encouragement from their compatriots! And may they continue to form among themselves living communities that manifest their joy in the love of God poured out in their hearts.

To all the diocesans of Bambari, Bangassou, Berberati, Bassangoa, and Bouar, whom I was unable to visit, as well as those of Bangui and who were unable to join us for various reasons, I extend my affectionate greetings. I bless my brother bishops, the priests, the deacons, the men and women religious, the laity, and all who work for the Gospel. My affectionate thoughts go especially to those suffering from illness, infirmity, and trials; they too, with their patience and love, participate in the birth of the Church. I feel close to them. They are close to Mary, the Virgin at the foot of the Cross, the Virgin in the glory of heaven.

May the Lord grant you all his comfort and peace! In his name, I bless you with all my heart. And I thank you for your welcome.

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