Source: Zenit

http://www.zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=54552

On May 31, 2004 Zenit released the text of the address John Paul II gave on Thursday, May 27, when he met Suriname's new ambassador to the Holy See, Edgard Stephanus Ragoenath Amanh. In his speech, the Pope addressed Suriname's religious diversity as follows: "in situations of cultural and religious pluralism, it is increasingly apparent that mutual understanding and respect for differences play a vital role in maintaining the national unity necessary for genuine progress and for ensuring that the dreaded specter of interreligious or interethnic conflict does not occur. In this regard, I am glad to note the commendable contributions of the long-established Council of Christian Churches and of the Interreligious Council, both of which are particularly active in helping Surinamese society to develop more closely in conformity with the dignity and rights of its citizens...For her part the Catholic Church in Suriname will likewise continue to assist in the attainment of the goals of peace and prosperity. Faithful to her spiritual and humanitarian mission, she takes an active role in the interreligious initiatives and multicultural activities which endeavor to serve the well-being of the people."