To be in right relationship with God and with each other. Peace is is the fruit of Charity and the consequence of Justice. It is the sign of caritas in action.
Peace is not merely an absence of war; nor can it be reduced solely to the maintenance of a balance of power between enemies; nor is it brought about by dictatorship. Instead, it is rightly and appropriately called an enterprise of justice.
- Second Vatican Council, Gaudium et Spes, 78
In a state of peace, people can live securely with their legitimately earned property and freely exchange goods with one another. In peace the dignity and the right of self-determination of individuals and of peoples are respected. In peace human coexistence is characterized by brotherly solidarity.
- YOUCAT 395
There is no true peace without fairness, truth, justice, and solidarity.
- Saint John Paul II, 2000 World Day of Peace, 13
Example in action:
In a country torn apart twice by genocide, one partner of Development and Peace, is a beacon of hope in Burundi. They have a centre of learning which also uses sport and service activities to bring together students from different ethnicities. They promote peace-building and leadership training. Members of the centre explain the sense of family they have developed and the breaking down of stereotypes and prejudices they held before joining the centre. Each summer, several work and training camps are organized. The centre is an inspiring success and is recognized both at the local and international levels.
