Cardinal Nemet in Christmas Address: Differences in Our Society Should Not Lead to Deep Divisions

Cardinal Ladislav Nemet (BETAPHOTO/MILAN OBRADOVIC)

Cardinal Ladislav Nemet said on Dec. 25 that "the differences in our society should not lead to hatred, the deep divisions that we see at every step, but precisely the creation of a better society where every good thing and value will find its place in the unity of the state of Serbia."

"Serbia is one of the most Christian countries in Europe with over 85 percent of the population declaring itself as Christian. How big of a power would this be if we lived according to the teachings of Jesus Christ, who came amongst us to give us the gift of wholeness of life," Cardinal Nemet said in an address on Catholic Christmas on Dec. 25.

He stressed that, "Love toward our own culture, tradition and faith does not lead to the exclusion of others, but precisely enables a genuine exchange of differences" and that "only someone faithful to their own identity and wealth can share what is important to them and of fundamental importance with others."

"Superficial equalizing does not create unity, but suffocates and appropriates. Unity grows where differences are taken seriously and accepted as a gift," Cardinal Nemet, who held a Christmas mass in Smederevo, said.