Religious organisations call for peace in France amid violent protests

The unrest was caused by the death of 17-year-old Nahel, who was killed by a police officer during a check on June 27. In the past few days, a wave of violence has swept through Nanterre, the town where the incident occurred, and other places in the country.

Perseverance

Now, the CNEF calls upon churches to "redouble their perseverance in prayer for our nation."

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It is important to pray for "the consolation and appeasement of those affected by the initial drama or the violence that followed", CNEF writes. In addition, they ask for prayer for the investigation and justice, for those that are called to maintain security, but also for the perpetrators who commit violence. Lastly, the CNEF calls for prayer for the French government "so that at all levels, they take relevant and fair decisions."

Appeasement

The CNEF is not the only religious actor that responds to the unrest. Also, several other religious leaders call for appeasement and justice, La Croix writes.

The Conference of Leaders of Worship in France (CRCF) wrote in a statement that they share the pain of Nahel's family. However, the organisation also condemns the violence, which "is never a good path." The statement continues that the first ones to suffer are the inhabitants, families and children of Nanterre. "May all believers today more than ever be servants of peace and the common good."

In the city of Trappes, religious leaders published a statement together. The Catholic, Muslim, Protestant and Jewish representatives expressed their "prayers for the soul of Nahel." They point out that maintaining peace is a shared responsibility and not only the business of the police. "Let's watch over our children, our young people."