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Europe Day: Catholic Priest Lauds Presence of Europeans in Sierra Leone as Testament of “shared values, mutual respect”

Europe Day Logo and Fr. Peter Konteh, the Executive Director of Caritas Freetown in Sierra Leone. Credit: Caritas Freetown/EU

By Silas Isenjia

Freetown, 10 May, 2024 / 8:23 pm (ACI Africa).

The presence of natives of Europe in Sierra Leone is a demonstration of the values they share with Sierra Leoneans alongside “mutual respect”, Fr. Peter Konteh, the Executive Director of Caritas Freetown in the West African nation has said. 

In a Facebook Post on Thursday, May 9, the annual Europe Day (ED), Fr. Peter Konteh acknowledges with appreciation the partnership that the European Union (EU) has had with Caritas Freetown in various situations.

“We would like to congratulate all European countries on this special day, particularly those who have representatives present here,” Fr. Konteh says.”

He recognizes what he describes as the privilege “to have representatives from various European countries present here in Sierra Leone”, and adds, “We wish to extend our warmest greetings and deepest gratitude to each one of you.”

“Your presence is a testament to the enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and Europe, a relationship that is built on shared values and mutual respect,” the Executive Director of the development and humanitarian arm of the Catholic Archdiocese of Freetown emphasizes. 

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“As we celebrate Europe Day, we want to highlight the vital role that European countries have played in supporting Sierra Leone's growth and progress. Your contributions have made a tangible difference in the lives of many Sierra Leoneans, and for that, we are immensely grateful,” he says.

Established in 1950 to celebrate peace and unity in Europe, ED “marks the anniversary of the historic 'Schuman declaration' that set out his idea for a new form of political cooperation in Europe, which would make war between Europe's nations unthinkable.”

In his Facebook page, Fr. Konteh says that “Europe's unity, diversity, and commitment to democratic values are an inspiration to us all.”

“To the EU delegation, we extend our deepest appreciation for your tireless efforts to foster a strong and meaningful partnership with Sierra Leone. Your dedication and commitment to our shared goals are truly commendable,” says the award-winning Catholic Priest.

He continues, “On this Europe Day, we look forward to strengthening our ties with Europe and continuing our shared journey towards a brighter, more inclusive future.”

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The member of the Clergy of Freetown Archdiocese goes on to laud the partnership the EU has had with Caritas Freetown.

Caritas Freetown, he says, “acknowledges and cherishes the unwavering commitment of the European Union in standing with us in good times and in challenging times.”

“Your support has been instrumental in our mission to provide essential services to the most vulnerable, promoting human rights, justice and peace, and fostering sustainable development,” Fr. Konteh says in his May 6 Facebook post.

Silas Isenjia

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.

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