"Dear Brothers, I would like to express to you my gratitude for your perseverance and your courage amidst the many difficulties that your country has been going through over the last few years": with these words, today, Benedict XVI spoke to the Bishops of the Bishops Conference of Togo (Republic of Togo is the official name), received in audience on the occasion of their "visita ad limina". The Pope emphasised the peacemaking role played by the Catholic Church of Togo, during the recent domestic political riots and conflicts, stating that "you have made a contribution to the talks for national reconciliation, by reminding everyone of the needs of the common good, in the faithfulness to the truth of God and man". Then, Benedict XVI recalled "the promotion of the truth and dignity of marriage", "making the youth discover what a unique, faithful commitment is"; he highlighted the importance of the Catholic schools as "places of integral education at the service of the families" and of the social doctrine as a factor of development of the country, inviting the lay devotees to "commit themselves to public life". Finally, he mentioned "the friendly relations that exist with the Muslims". Out of a population of 6.2 million, one half are animists, 30% are Christians (two thirds are Catholic), and 20% are Muslims.
