Seoul (Agenzia Fides) - "Our society is full of conflict and division. In this difficult moment, I pray that the mercy and compassion of Buddha can be granted in abundance to our society", said Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung, Archbishop of Seoul, in a message sent to the Buddhist community on the occasion of the 2560th anniversary of the birth of Buddha. The text of the message, sent to Agenzia Fides, says: "I pray that Jesus’ teaching of mercy and Buddha's teaching of love may be welcomed by all, and that our two religions can walk together on the path of truth, to enlighten the people and build a society of peace and well-being".
The Cardinal expressed "heartfelt congratulations for the 2560th anniversary of the birth of Buddha" and, representing the Korean Catholics, he says: "I hope that the abundant compassion and mercy of Buddha can be granted to each of you".
The Catholic Church in Korea (the faithful are about 10% of the population) has very good interfaith relations with leaders and Buddhists (22% of the Korean population). Cardinal Yeom and Venerable Jaseung, who heads the forum "Korean Bhussit Jogye", are used to exchanging greetings through messages on the occasion of Buddha's birth and Christian Christmas. There are also various activities and interreligious meetings. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 12/05/2016)
