We, the Bishops of the Catholic Church, in profound communion with our communities afflicted by the unexpected and tragic events that we underwent without understanding the reasons, we come to renew our friendship and our brotherhood with all of the Muslim community in our country. We express our cordial gratitude to each and every one of you for all the gestures and acts of solidarity that you have expressed.

We agree with the pain that you share with us. Our places of worship and most of our infrastructures were demolished but our faith is intact. It is with ours and yours, together we shall build again what our common enemies have deliberately wanted to destroy. The activities of the Catholic Church which aim only at serving populations will resume slowly, where it is possible according to each situation.

If any of you think that we have failed in our mission,may they accept our forgiveness that we offer indeed. Our heart has never ceased to be animated by the strong words of Jesus: ‘ Love your enemies… do good to those who hate you… wish good to those who curse you,. pray for those who persecute you ‘ (LK 6: 27-28).

We implore abundant and generous blessings on each and every one of you, your families and on our country of.
May God accompany us on the path of the reconciliation.

Niamey, 25-01-015

+ Bishop Laurent Lompo, Archbishop elect of Niamey
+ Bishop Ambroise Ouédraogo, Bishop of Maradi
+ Bishop Michel Cartateguy as Apostolic Administrator of Niamey