The things that make for peace - Theological Advisory Commission by the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference

Southern Africa presents a bewildering and frightening picture of various local wars, continued outbreaks of 'unrest' and endemic violence. The first section of this report picks out the various causes and contributary factors that produce such violent conflicts. The second section draws upon the scriptures and shows how God's covenant of peace with his people rested upon their emulating his justice and compassion in dealing with each other, and recognizing in worship his sovereignty over them. In this light and appraisal is made of the church's subsequent teaching, particularly that of the 'just war'.

The third section takes the biblical and later theological ways of thought as a framework in which to examine the main issues of peace and violence as they occur in different parts of Southern Africa. Attention is given to the danger of totalitarian violence, whether from the left or right wing. Among the issues examined are conscientious objection, law and order, the food weapon, nuclear armaments, political negotiations, the arms trade and destabilization. A major point that emerges through this study is that, besides facing these ethical questions, people are called to work actively for peace. Under certain stringent conditions, this may include recourse to violence to uphold or secure justice. But also mercy and compassion are called for as only these can build up solidarity  and prepare for a new future.

The aim of this report is not to dictate to anyone what they should or should not do, but to present some lines of approach for both understanding and action. It has been prepared by various members of the Theological  Advisory Commission of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference. It itself is the fruit of various discussions and arguments and so is published to stimulate both personal and communal self-reflection on these life and death issues.