Letter of Solidarity with the Church in Guatemala, January 3, 1997

January 3, 1997  

Most Reverend Julio Edgar Cabrera Ovalle
General Secretary
Episcopal Conference of Guatemala
Apartado Postal 1698
Guatemala City
GUATEMALA

Dear Bishop Cabrera, 

May I take this opportunity to extend to you and, through you, to the Guatemalan Episcopal Conference the prayerful best wishes of our Conference that this new year, begun so auspiciously with the December 29 signing of the peace accords, will truly be one of peace and reconciliation for all the Guatemalan people. 

The willingness of both President Arzú and the leadership of the URNG to enter into direct contact and commit themselves not only to the definitive end of hostilities, as they did early last year, but now to the full implementation of the peace process, merits the praise of all. Of great importance as well has been the role played by elements of the Church both in Guatemala and elsewhere, as well as by other Christian bodies, in faithfully pressing the demands of peace with justice. Our Conference plans to press for increased U.S. government support for implementing the peace plan, and we would be pleased to learn from you of any other ways in which we may be of assistance. 

We express once again our admiration for the witness of the Church in Guatemala and your constant efforts to defend the rights of all, especially the indigenous majority, and to pursue the paths of peace, justice and reconciliation. 

With all best wishes for the continued success of your apostolic labor, I remain

Fraternally yours in Christ,  

Reverend Monsignor Dennis M. Schnurr
General Secretary