Statement

Pope Francis has prayed for the many people affected by the tragic humanitarian crisis in Palestine and has repeatedly called for global solidarity and empathy to achieve peace.

We, Catholic universities and junior colleges, are educational institutions that follow Christian ideals and share the values of "coexistence," "harmony," "peace," and "service to life." In December 2022, we were saddened by the devastation of the conflict in Ukraine and sent a message calling for action for peace. At the 2024 General Assembly of the Japan Association of Catholic Universities and Junior Colleges, in accordance with Pope Francis' message, we strongly condemn all forms of murder and violence, offer our condolences to all those who lost their lives, and express our sympathy to all those who are in a difficult position. Our thoughts go out to those people, and we reaffirm that we will fulfill our responsibility as an educational institution to help realize a peaceful international society.

Our hearts are always with those in vulnerable positions and those suffering from the ravages of war. We strongly urge that a cease-fire be achieved in Palestine as soon as possible, that the people will be able to regain safety and that their lives will not be threatened, and that peace can return to the region.

As a Catholic educational institution, we pledge to fulfill our mission by developing leaders who will realize a society where human dignity and life are respected, and by leveraging our global network to take action for peace.

June 2024
Japan Association of Catholic Universities and Junior Colleges
Presidents of member universities