Kosovar mosaic

Bishop Dode Gjergji, pastor of the Kosovar Church (representing 5% of two million citizens of the small Balkan country), applauded the courage and responsibility of both delegations, thanked the European Union for the contribution given to this agreement, and recalled the commitment of Kosovo’s Church in accompanying this process with prayer. The bishop welcomed the progress in the relations between Belgrade and Pristine expected to put an end to "an unbearable" conflict situation, thus paving the way to European integration. "The wounds of the conflict – Msgr. Gjergji told Michele Luppi for SIR Europe – lingered on in the post-war years and seemed to last forever, causing malaise and apathy, which is harmful to citizens and policy-makers alike". Msgr. Gjergji has travelled for a pilgrimage to Rome with the faithful. The visit culminated in the audience with Pope Francis: "A moment of grace that has surprised and enriched us all". What was your reaction to the breakthrough in the negotiations? "Peace could no longer be guaranteed by weapons. The change in this situation was brought about by the possibility of two peoples and two states that could reach a state of peace through dialogue, with the courage of seeking a solution to problems that had been mounting for decades in the perspective of mutual integration within the larger family of the Peoples of Europe. Let us hope that the bitterness of the conflict may enable us to enjoy the fruits of peace and reconciliation".There are many challenges ahead for Kosovo, such as reconciliation between communities, economic development and the rule of law. What role can Church play?"The situation changed completely after the war and the NATO intervention in 1999. As Catholic Church, along with other religious communities, we have always believed in the help of God, in the moral and spiritual strength of the believers, in the possibility of reconciliation for everyone and with everyone. In this sense, we also made some courageous and almost ‘prophetic’ gestures such as regular meetings with the three leaders of religious communities – the Islamic community, the Serbian Orthodox Church in Kosovo and the Catholic Church – to address different issues and develop common approaches thus setting the example for our faithful. After a year of regular meetings we set up a joint committee to work concretely for ecumenical and interreligious dialogue. As representatives as the Catholic Church we are also committed to reawaken a sense of law and duty, to promote the common good, forgiveness, and coexistence at all levels".The new agreement addresses the sensitive issue of Serb-majority municipalities in northern Kosovo. An area where you are present through Caritas, with what spirit and outlook?"Caritas Kosovo, along with other European Caritas, is committed to helping every person and family threatened by the scourge of poverty, disease and unemployment, saddened by the loss of their loved ones in the war. With concrete support we have tried to improve inter-ethnic and interreligious relations, especially in Northern Mitrovica, where people are from different ethnic groups and religions. It is a daily witness of unity in diversity, a demonstration of how ethnic and religious pluralism is not an insurmountable impediment. Indeed, it might be a good opportunity for a different, authentic and genuine commitment. The Brussels agreements have demonstrated at a high level that now a good part of believes lives for these human and Christian values​​. Now it is the task of all, especially of believers, to pass from the signing of the agreements to their implementation in everyday life".The freedom of worship and freedom of access to places of worship, Orthodox monasteries in particular, are among the priorities of the EU. How is the situation today?"The question of the freedom of worship and communication between religious communities and the Government has now been overcome. We’ve already gone a long way together. Access to Serbian monasteries for the local population is a reality. Interethnic, as well as ecumenical and interreligious dialogue, have made clear progress, creating a more relaxed and safe environment for everyone. Based on these principles and experiences we continue our commitment, improving and enriching more and more this ‘mosaic’ laboriously composed and created over 14 years ago, especially from 2008 onwards".” “” “Fact sheetAfter the agreement of April 19 in Brussels, allowing for the normalization of the relations with Kosovo, the related implementation plan was approved. On the part of Belgrade the agreement doesn’t represent a formal recognition of the Kosovar State. Rather, it envisages the establishment of an association of Serbian communities of Kosovo, in Northern Serbian-majority areas and in the Serbian enclaves in the rest of the Country. These communities will enjoy major autonomy (notably in terms of police forces and the judiciary) within Kosovo institutions. The agreement could pave the way towards the EU.