Dear young people,

I do not want to be long, because I have already spoken at the beginning. However, I would hope and pray to the Lord, that this meeting of dialogue, of listening, that your passage through Cyprus increases in you, in each one of you, the “Hope”.

In the current international context, in fact, marked by so many conflicts, so much suffering, I can imagine that many of you (of us) feel discouraged. Wars, the lack of sensitivity with the real situation of immigration are still daily news in our society. Here in Cyprus we still live the sad reality of the occupation, and the consequences that this brings to our local communities (Orthodox, Armenian, Maronite and Latin).

However, we want to say, indeed we want to announce to you that we do not surrender to evil, that we are victorious…

We all have within us the strength of the Spirit, the strength of God… we are not alone.

Here in Cyprus, in the face of difficulties, we are united as Christians and Muslims. Here we have the religious track… and we meet and fight together for religious freedom, for respect for the human person and for our rights to worship in our places of worship.

And I would like to tell you that in the face of difficulties: in your countries, in your families, do not close yourselves off… do not isolate yourselves… do not lose hope. Instead open yourselves to dialogue… to listening. Because dialogue generates a path, which leads the way. But take notice, dialogue, listening is not always the easiest path… or the quickest solution.

In today’s society, the world proposes other solutions… perhaps someone will even try to convince you that wars are necessary. That the easiest things will bring you happiness.

Do not let yourselves be fooled by those who, would entice you with futile promises, in reality they only want to exploit you, condition you and use you for their own interests. Be careful not to be conditioned. Be free, but free in harmony with your dignity. Do not paint your soul, do not paint your heart; be as you are: sincere, transparent”. And open to dialogue.  Listen to the voice of God that speaks to your hearts… to your consciences…

I hope that all of you young people move forward with hope… Thank you!